GLASGOW, SCOTLAND — Celtic have confirmed the signing of Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho on a free transfer, securing the deal just before the Europa League signing deadline. The 28-year-old joins the Scottish club on a one-year contract after agreeing to terminate his previous deal with Sevilla.
The arrival of the seasoned forward comes in the wake of significant criticism from Celtic supporters, who expressed outrage over the club’s failure to sign a new striker on transfer deadline day. The Affiliation of Celtic Supporters Clubs had previously called for an explanation from chief executive Michael Nicholson following the sale of Adam Idah to Swansea City without a replacement.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers, who worked with Iheanacho during his time at Leicester City, expressed strong confidence in the new signing. “He is such a talented player, with great ability, athleticism, and work-rate,” Rodgers said on the club’s website. “He has great experience and he is right in his peak years, so he can be a great signing for us. I am sure he will make a big contribution to the team.” Rodgers added that he believes Iheanacho will “love being at Celtic” and that “our fans will love what he brings.”
Iheanacho, who has earned 59 caps for the Nigerian national team, began his senior career at Manchester City. He went on to win the FA Cup with Leicester City in 2021 and helped Nigeria to a second-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Last season, he spent time on loan at English Championship side Middlesbrough.
Source: ladunliadinews