Celtic appear to be closing in on their first signing of the summer.
The momentum around this potential deal has shifted dramatically in the last 48 hours. What began as cautious negotiations has escalated into a high-stakes race to finalise one of the most intriguing transfers of the early summer window. Sources close to both clubs indicate that personal terms were broadly agreed late last week, paving the way for Duran’s dramatic departure from Azerbaijan.
According to Azerbaijani outlet Sport Info, Camilo Duran has now left Qarabağ’s pre-season training camp and travelled to Scotland to complete his move to the Scottish champions.
The report claims the Colombian striker will undergo his medical over today and tomorrow before signing a three-year contract, with the club holding the option to extend the deal by a further 12 months. This structure gives Celtic flexibility while providing Duran with security in a new league and environment.
If completed, it would bring an end to weeks of speculation surrounding the 24-year-old and mark a significant statement of intent from Martin O’Neill as he looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of a crucial campaign on multiple fronts.
Duran enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, scoring 15 goals in all competitions, including five in the Champions League, and has emerged as one of Martin O’Neill’s priority attacking targets. His performances against top European sides turned heads across the continent, showcasing not just clinical finishing but also intelligent movement and the ability to create chances in tight spaces. For a player who cost Qarabağ a modest fee just a year ago, his rapid rise has been remarkable.
One intriguing detail, however, is the reported transfer fee. Sport Info continue to state that Qarabağ will receive around €5 million for the striker. That contrasts with previous reports, which suggested Celtic were hoping to conclude a deal closer to the €3 million mark. Whether the final figure includes achievable add-ons or performance-related bonuses remains to be seen. Insiders suggest the higher valuation reflects Qarabağ’s strong negotiating position and Duran’s proven European pedigree.
The timing of the move is also significant. CeltsAreHere reported earlier that Celtic were in a race against time to avoid Duran becoming ineligible for the Champions League play-off. Should he have featured for Qarabağ in Thursday’s Europa League qualifier, UEFA regulations would have prevented him from representing Celtic in the Champions League qualifying rounds this season. His departure from the Azerbaijani club’s training camp strongly suggests both parties are now focused on completing the transfer before that scenario becomes an issue. This urgency underscores the strategic importance of the signing for Celtic’s European ambitions.
While neither club has officially confirmed an agreement, this is the clearest indication yet that Duran is on the verge of becoming a Celtic player. Social media has been ablaze with Hoops fans sharing highlights of Duran’s goals, from his brace against Eintracht Frankfurt to strikes against Benfica and Ajax. Many are already drawing comparisons to past Celtic forwards who thrived with pace and directness.
If the medical is completed successfully, Martin O’Neill could soon have the first new arrival of what is expected to be a busy summer at Parkhead. The Northern Irishman has made no secret of his desire to add depth and quality up front following the departures and uncertainties around several current squad members. Duran’s arrival would inject fresh energy into a forward line that has at times lacked consistency in big matches.
Beyond the immediate impact, this potential transfer highlights Celtic’s evolving recruitment strategy. Under O’Neill’s guidance, the club appears more willing to invest in players with recent European experience rather than relying solely on domestic or lower-league talents. Duran’s journey—from Colombian youth ranks through Portuguese lower divisions to starring in the Champions League—embodies the kind of determined, adaptable profile that fits the modern game.
Fans will be eager to see how he adapts to the physicality and intensity of Scottish football. His left-footed ability to cut inside from wide areas or lead the line centrally offers tactical versatility that could suit O’Neill’s preferred setups. Early training sessions and pre-season friendlies will be key in integrating him alongside established stars like Daizen Maeda and Benjamin Nygren.
From Qarabağ’s perspective, the sale represents excellent business. A player acquired for a low fee who delivered Champions League heroics and is now commanding a record outgoing transfer fee demonstrates smart scouting and development. The club can reinvest in their squad as they continue their own European campaigns.
As the clock ticks on July 7, all eyes remain on the medical results and any final paperwork. Celtic supporters are optimistic, viewing this as the spark for a productive window that could strengthen their title defence and European push. Should everything align positively over the next 24-48 hours, Parkhead could soon welcome a new “goal machine” ready to make his mark in green and white.
The broader context at Celtic this summer involves balancing squad depth with financial prudence. Recent contract extensions, such as for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, show stability in the midfield, but attacking reinforcements have been a clear priority. Duran’s profile addresses that need directly.
Expect further updates as medicals progress and official announcements loom. For now, the signs point toward an exciting new chapter for both player and club.