Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has expressed optimism about a flurry of new arrivals after Camilo Duran scored on his debut in a 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Sporting Lisbon. O'Neill branded the £6m Colombian signing as 'Daizen Maeda Mark Two' after his high-pressing goal mirrored the Japanese forward's style.
Duran's Impact and Maeda's Potential Exit
Duran's goal came from a pressing move reminiscent of Maeda, who is reportedly heading for an exit with West Ham among English clubs interested. O'Neill praised Duran's performance: 'I said, 'this is Daizen Maeda the second'! I do think he'll be a proper player, not just because he closed down and scored the goal. He does like to press, absolutely.'
Transfer Targets and Iheanacho Update
O'Neill confirmed the club is chasing several targets, including Utrecht winger Adrien Blake. He is 'optimistic' about Kelechi Iheanacho, who is considering a two-year deal amid offers from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Attacker Shin Yamada has been loaned to OH Leuven for the season. O'Neill said: 'We're trying to come to some sort of agreement with Iheanacho but we are definitely making moves. I am in constant touch with Michael (Nicholson). I don't know about numbers but I am definitely optimistic we will get players in.'
Araujo Return Possible but Challenging
O'Neill opened the door for Julian Araujo's return but noted hurdles. The Bournemouth full-back impressed on loan but suffered an injury. O'Neill said: 'I don't know if Bournemouth would loan him out again, I would think they would want to sell him. I would keep it open, because you don't know what could happen. If it was all within our scope it's something I would definitely look at.'
Pre-Season Defeat Not a Concern
O'Neill shrugged off the Sporting defeat, citing the return of World Cup players and ongoing squad strengthening. He said: 'They are a really good side. It was a great test. I have been here many times in pre-season before. In terms of the performance, I'm not too worried. The most important game is the first match of the season.'
