Celtic closing in on £5.5m deal for forward Camilo Duran

Celtic are reportedly on the verge of completing a £5.5m transfer for Qarabag forward Camilo Duran, a Colombian striker who caught the eye with five Champions League goals last season.

The 24-year-old scored against Newcastle, Benfica, Eintracht Frankfurt (twice) and Ajax in the competition, matching the tally of players like Vinicius Junior and Michael Olise. His performances have prompted Celtic manager Martin O'Neill to make him his first permanent signing since returning to the club.

Who is Camilo Duran?

Duran began his career in Colombia with Independiente Medellín before a loan spell at Brazilian giants Flamengo. An injury prevented a permanent move, but he later moved to Europe, joining Qarabag in Azerbaijan in 2024 after a stint in Portugal's second tier.

Known for his versatility, Duran has played as a centre-forward, right winger, and left winger. Despite being left-footed, he has often been deployed on the right. In 38 appearances as a striker, he has scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists.

What will he bring to Celtic?

• Five Champions League goals in one season — a rare feat for a striker outside Europe's top leagues
• Versatility across the front line, able to play as a central striker or wide attacker
• Described as 'hot-headed' in his youth, but has matured and adapted to different leagues
• Proven goalscoring record in European competition
• Relatively low transfer fee of £5.5m with potential for resale value

With the Scottish Premiership season underway, Celtic are looking to add depth to their attack. Duran’s arrival would provide competition for Daizen Maeda and offer a different option in the final third.