Celtic have confirmed the signing of Colombian forward Camilo Duran from Qarabag for an undisclosed fee, with reports suggesting a deal worth around £6m. The 24-year-old has penned a five-year contract at Parkhead, becoming the first new arrival under manager Martin O'Neill this summer.
Quick Facts
Age: 24
Position: Forward
Nationality: Colombian
Previous club: Qarabag (Azerbaijan Premier League)
2025/26 stats: 15 goals, 10 assists in 10 Champions League appearances (5 goals)
The Transfer
After a standout campaign in Azerbaijan, Duran emerged as a priority target for the Hoops. He joined Qarabag last summer from Portuguese second-tier side Portimonense and quickly adapted, delivering 25 goal contributions across all competitions. His performances in Europe's elite competition, where he bagged five goals in 10 outings, caught the attention of several clubs, but Celtic moved swiftly to secure his services.
The deal is understood to be in the region of £6m, making him a significant investment for the Scottish Premiership champions. Duran flew to Portugal to join his new teammates at their training camp and met manager O'Neill immediately.
"When I first heard of the interest there was absolutely no doubt in my mind and I'm just excited to get playing with the boys. I've told the manager how happy I am to be here and that I will hopefully repay him with my performances."
Player Profile and Stats
Duran is a versatile forward capable of leading the line or operating out wide. His 15 goals and 10 assists last term underline a player who combines finishing with creativity. Crucially, five of those goals came in the Champions League, proving he can deliver on the biggest stage.
The Colombian is known for his high work rate and aggression. Described as 'a bit of a rebel' by those who have followed his career, Duran plays with intensity and a never-say-die attitude that will endear him to the Parkhead faithful.
What He Brings to Celtic
Celtic have lacked a consistent goal threat in Europe in recent seasons, and Duran's clinical edge in front of goal could be the missing piece. His ability to create for others adds a new dimension to an attack that will be aiming to retain the domestic title and make a deeper run in the Champions League.
Speaking about his ambitions, Duran made his priorities clear:
"It was a dream come true playing in the Champions League. That's what you dream of as a kid, so to score goals was amazing and that's what I want to continue doing here, scoring goals in the Champions League."
Additionally, the move opens the door to international recognition. Duran becomes the first Colombian to play for Celtic, and he hopes the platform will lead to a long-awaited call-up.
"It's an honour to be the first Colombian to play for Celtic. It's been a dream of mine since I was a kid [to play for my country] and I hope that being here at Celtic and working well, then one day that will become true."
Key Takeaways
- Celtic have completed their first summer signing, securing Camilo Duran on a five-year deal for around £6m.
- The Colombian scored 15 goals and provided 10 assists last season, with five Champions League goals.
- Duran is eager to continue his European scoring form and help Celtic progress in the competition.
- He hopes the move to Scotland will boost his chances of earning a debut for the Colombia national team.
- Manager Martin O'Neill gets a versatile, high-energy forward as he rebuilds the squad ahead of the title defence.