Martin O'Neill has confirmed that incoming striker Camilo Duran will undergo his Celtic medical on Wednesday before joining up with his new teammates for their Portuguese training camp. The Hoops boss stressed that further strengthening is needed to avoid 'standing still' after a season that relied on a late winning run.
Duran Deal and Summer Signings
The Hoops have agreed a deal with Qarabag for the Colombian hitman, thought to be worth £3 million initially but could rise to £6 million if a number of add-ons are triggered. Duran will make it just two summer signings for the champions so far after veteran midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain returned on a one-year deal despite playing a bit part towards the end of last season.
Fans Demand More Additions
Fans are demanding more additions after letting rip at the board last term following one underwhelming window too many. And O'Neill insists there are currently irons in the fire as he sent a gentle reminder that further strengthening is definitely needed if Celtic are to avoid relying on a season-saving run once again.
"We need some character in the side," he told Premier Sports. "You sign a lot of players and you need players that can actually help us. I think we do need a bit of help, of course. It was a really great run last season but you wouldn't want to be relying on all of that just the same time. You're trying to improve the team, that's the most important thing rather than just standing still."
O'Neill's Plans for Pre-Season
O'Neill is back in charge on a permanent basis after two caretaker spells that season, when he managed to haul Celtic over the line in the title race. He then made it a domestic double with a Scottish Cup Final win over Dunfermline. And he admits things should be slightly easier now that he can plan for more than a few weeks at a time.
"The whole idea of the pre-season from my point of view is to try and implement ideas that you wouldn't have had time to do before," he added. "It was a rush both times. We're leaving tomorrow for a few days in Portugal and we've got a couple of pre-season friendly matches at Celtic Park, so really looking forward to it. It comes upon you so quickly, I don't really think we've had much time to enjoy the end of last season. It's here again."
Further Transfer Activity
O'Neill confirmed that the club is working on further deals. "We've got some things on the go at this minute. We have the young lad, Duran, who will hopefully be doing a medical tomorrow and joining us in Portugal. But we are absolutely trying to improve the squad, and that will be necessary."
