Martin O’Neill responds to Mory Gbane transfer speculation

Camilo Duran has completed his move to Celtic after joining from Azerbaijani champions Qarabag in a deal worth around £5.5 million, becoming the club’s first signing of the summer transfer window.

Manager Martin O’Neill is hopeful the Colombian forward will be the first of several new arrivals, with Celtic continuing talks over potential moves for Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi.

O’Neill confirmed that discussions remain ongoing with the representatives of both players.

“Michael Nicholson has spoken to Iheanacho’s agent at this minute,” O’Neill said. “That’s where things stand.

“It’s the same situation with Saracchi. I think both players would like to return given the current circumstances. Now it’s up to us to see if we can get deals over the line. I’d certainly like to bring them back, but there’s still work to do.”

Duran arrives in Glasgow after impressing in Europe last season, scoring five goals in the UEFA Champions League for Qarabag.

Celtic had been monitoring the 24-year-old since April, when O’Neill was still serving as interim manager. Despite uncertainty surrounding his own future at the time, he believed Duran possessed the qualities needed to succeed at the club.

“We’ve been tracking him for a couple of months and first identified him around April,” O’Neill explained.

“He was one of the players we felt would suit Celtic regardless of who ended up managing the team. Thankfully we’ve managed to complete the deal.

“Scouting today is more detailed than ever. You have reports, opinions, performance data and analysis that all help shape decisions. Everything has to come together before you make a signing, and we believe Camilo has what it takes.”

The Colombian striker admitted joining Celtic was an opportunity he could not turn down.

“As soon as I heard Celtic were interested, I didn’t need any time to think about it,” Duran said.

“Playing and scoring in the Champions League has always been a dream of mine since I was a child, and I want to continue doing that here with Celtic.

“I always give everything on the pitch through hard work and commitment, and hopefully the goals will follow.

“It’s a huge honour to become the first Colombian to represent Celtic. I’ve also always dreamed of playing for my national team, and I hope performing well here will help make that happen.

“I’ve already told the manager how grateful I am for this opportunity, and I want to repay his faith with strong performances. Wearing this shirt is a privilege, and I hope we can win the league this season.”

O’Neill also played down ongoing speculation linking Celtic with a host of other transfer targets.

“I haven’t paid much attention to all the rumours because there are so many names being mentioned,” he said.

“Even members of the board ask me who some of these players are. It’s impossible for me to comment on every player that’s linked with the club.”