Celtic transfer news: New Giakoumakis detail amid Atlanta United talks

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Atlanta United are in talks with Celtic over the transfer of striker Giorgos Giakoumakis. But the Greek international’s switch to Major League Soccer may only be in an initial loan deal.

That is according to MLSsoccer.com, which reports that the Five Stripes and Hoops are yet to reach an agreement. But Atlanta United hope to take Giakoumakis to America in a deal that benefits coach Gonzalo Pineda’s other plans as the club seeks further reinforcements.

Giakoumakis leaving Celtic in an initial loan transfer would likely see Atlanta United obtain an option to make it permanent. The deal could also feature criteria to make the clause an obligation if the 28-year-old and Mercedes-Benz Stadium outfit meet performance targets.

Atlanta United are exploring an initial loan without an upfront fee to afford Pineda further funds for additional signings. The Five Stripes have so far focused on moving players on to free cap space. Josef Martinez, Marcelino Moreno and Alan Franco are among those gone.

Pineda has turned to Giakoumakis to fill Martinez’s void in his frontline after falling out of favour at Parkhead. The 11-cap striker has only started four of his 19 Premiership outings this season. He also only started in two of his six Group F games in the Champions League.

Celtic star Giakoumakis has already accepted Atlanta United’s transfer offer

Giakoumakis is under contract with Celtic until May 2026, so he may return from any loan transfer to Atlanta United. But the Daily Record reports the Five Stripes have offered £4m after increasing their bid for a permanent deal. This could now be the option to buy clause.

While SDNA has reported that Giakoumakis has accepted a transfer from Celtic to Atlanta United this month. He believes the MLS franchise offers everything he needs from his next club. But it also claims that the Five Stripes and Hoops are still yet to reach an agreement.

Bhoys coach Ange Postecoglou is ready to let Giakoumakis leave Celtic. He will not block a deal after the Hoops and forward failed to reach an agreement over his new contract, per the Daily Record. The £2.5m arrival from VVV-Venlo in August 2021 was chasing a pay rise.