Celtic are set to announce the signing of Colombian forward Camilo Duran on a five-year deal, marking the marquee arrival fans have been waiting for after a quiet summer transfer window. The 24-year-old has already joined the squad training in Portugal ahead of the official announcement.
Who is Camilo Duran?
Duran hails from Santa Marta, Colombia, and impressed during his debut season at Qarabag in Azerbaijan. The club bought him from Portuguese side Portimonense for just £200,000, but his breakout campaign—both domestically and in the Champions League—has dramatically increased his value. Celtic are understood to be paying around £6 million for the forward, with Qarabag retaining a percentage of any future profit from a sale.
Background and journey to Celtic
Growing up in an impoverished area of Santa Marta, Duran used football as his route out of poverty. He joined a local academy at a young age and was picked up by Independiente Medellin at 13, beginning an 11-year journey that eventually led him to Celtic. His former coach Sebastian Botero described him as a 'rebel' but noted that this streak drives his success, adding that Duran remains humble and true to his roots.
Playing style and position
Originally a midfielder, Duran was converted into a winger during his time at Independiente Medellin after Botero spotted his potential. Left-footed, he started last season playing off the right wing but finished the campaign as a central striker due to his finishing ability and growing importance to the side. His versatility makes him a valuable asset for manager Brendan Rodgers.
Goal record and European pedigree
Duran scored 15 goals for Qarabag last season, including five in the Champions League against Benfica, Ajax, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Newcastle United. This record hints at his ability to perform at the highest level and suggests he can make an immediate impact in Celtic's European campaigns.
Shirt number and off-pitch personality
Duran is expected to wear the number 11 shirt, previously worn by Tomas Cvancara, Liel Abada, Scott Sinclair, and Jorge Cadete. Off the pitch, he is described as slightly hot-headed but driven; his rebellious nature is seen as a positive trait that fuels his ambition.
Is he worth the money?
While no transfer is a certainty, the £6 million fee appears to be a coup given the modest finances involved. It will be a record sale for an Azerbaijani club, but Celtic have spent more in the past—such as the £11 million on Arne Engels. Duran's Champions League experience and goal-scoring ability make him a promising addition to the squad.
