Giorgos Giakoumakis is set to continue his career in the Middle East after agreeing a move to UAE champions Al-Ain from Mexican side Cruz Azul.
The former Celtic striker, who spent last season on loan at PAOK, is closing in on a permanent switch after the clubs reached an agreement.
توصل نادي العين إلى اتفاق مبدئي مع نادي كروز أزول المكسيكي لشراء عقد المهاجم اليوناني جورجيوس جياكوماكيس، تمهيداً لانضمامه إلى صفوف الزعيم. وسيصل اللاعب خلال الايام المقبلة لاجراء الفحوصات الطبية لاستكمال الإجراءات التعاقدية، ويتقدم نادي العين بجزيل الشكر لإدارة نادي كروز أزول… pic.twitter.com/wpBx6Fvt4A
— نادي العين (@alainfcae) July 9, 2026
Al-Ain confirmed a preliminary deal on social media, with the Greece international expected to travel in the coming days to complete a medical and finalise terms.
“Al Ain Club has reached a preliminary agreement with Mexican club Cruz Azul to purchase the contract of Greek striker Giorgos Giakoumakis,” a statement read. “The player is set to arrive in the coming days to undergo medical examinations to complete the contractual procedures.”
The move marks another step in a well-travelled career, with Al-Ain becoming the 12th club Giakoumakis has represented.
He impressed during his loan spell at PAOK, scoring 15 goals and helping the Greek side secure a third-place finish and reach the Greek Cup final, but the club opted against making the deal permanent.
Read more
-
Kelechi Iheanacho to Celtic latest as striker 'considers' transfer offers
-
Celtic given 'firm' response by sporting director in pursuit of World Cup star
-
Celtic named in three-team shortlist for 'highly sought-after' midfielder
Giakoumakis first moved to Celtic in 2021 under Ange Postecoglou and played a key role in the club’s title-winning campaign.
Despite often competing for a starting place, he delivered crucial goals, including a prolific run of nine strikes in 30 days during early 2022 and a Champions League effort against Shakhtar Donetsk.
He left Glasgow in January 2023 following a contract dispute, joining Atlanta United in a deal worth around £3.4 million before moving on to Cruz Azul after a single MLS season.
His return to Greece last term reignited his scoring form and has now paved the way for his latest transfer.
