Georgios Samaras will not be joining Serie A side Napoli after manager Rafa Benitez opted against completing a deal for the Greece international.
If Greece are to upset the odds in Brazil and qualify from a group containing three dark horses in the shape of Ivory Coast, Colombia and Japan then the form of striker Georgios Samaras could be crucial.
And the former Celtic striker will be desperate to impress this summer having left Parkhead in search of a fresh challenge.
One team the former Manchester City man won’t be going to, however, is Napoli after manager Rafa Benitez rejected the opportunity to sign the striker.
According to a report from Europa Calcio, the former Liverpool manager opted against bringing the Greece international in as cover for Gonzalo Higuain as Napoli look to challenge Juventus for the Serie A title next season.
Celtic had hoped to keep hold of the forward, who proved a valuable asset to their efforts both domestically and in the Champions League in the past.
Back in the 2012-13 season the 29-year-old became the first Celtic player to score in five consecutive away games in Europe, as well as 53 goals in 172 domestic appearances for the Bhoys.
He opted against signing a new deal with the Hoops in favour of playing elsewhere, with many suggesting he was keen on joining another team in the Champions League.
But with Napoli rejecting the chance to sign the player, Samaras must now look elsewhere for a move at what is a crucial point in his career.
In the meantime though, the forward is preparing to play for Greece at the World Cup.
He may be being rejected by some at this stage but impress in Brazil and he could have his pick of clubs.
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