Martin O'Neill 'optimistic' of Celtic transfer surge as Julian Araujo addressed after signing Maeda 2.0
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has branded Colombian striker Camilo Duran as the second Maeda after the 6million signing impressed on his debut. The Hoops recruit scored in a 4-1 friendly defeat to Sporting Lisbon.
Duran's impact has given O'Neill optimism about his squad overhaul. Maeda is heading for an exit with West Ham chasing the frontman, but O'Neill remains determined to strengthen.
Speaking about Duran, O'Neill said: "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 scored and there were a couple of moments that didn't quite bounce his way."
The Hoops boss admitted Celtic are chasing several transfer targets including Utrecht winger Adrien Blake. O'Neill is determined to strengthen before the Premiership kick-off and Champions League qualifier.
The boss is optimistic Kelechi Iheanacho will sign on a two-year deal amid offers from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Chief executive Michael Nicholson is working behind the scenes to bring in new faces.
He 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. I think to balance things up we'd have to let a few players go but I'm hoping to be in a position to do that with others coming in."
O'Neill also addressed Julian Araujo's return. The Bournemouth loanee impressed last season. "He did very well for us. I don't know if Bournemouth would loan him out again. 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 because he would be up for the fight."