MLS side Atlanta are reportedly attempting to secure Celtic striker Giorgos Giakoumakis on an initial loan deal with a purchase option this month.
The Greek frontman has looked set to be heading out of Celtic Park this month since Record Sport revealed that talks over a new contract with the Premiership champions fell apart, with reports suggesting the 28-year-old was on the radar of the likes of Sampdoria and Real Valladolid this month. Urawa Red Diamonds also reportedly remain an option having offered the frontman a chance to double his current salary in the J-League, but a switch Stateside appears to be the player's preferred option at this stage.
Reports in Greece state the player has already agreed personal terms with Atlanta but has been waiting on Celtic and the Georgia outfit to come to an agreement over an exit. A report from America suggests the suitors hope to secure a loan agreement this month.
The official Major League Soccer website claim to have spoken to an Atlanta insider over the negotiations with the Hopps over the Greece international. They claim that a deal "likely to be a loan with a purchase option that would automatically trigger if certain performance-based incentives hit."
They note that the club are looking to save cash to strengthen in other areas this month ahead of their Eastern Conference campaign. They note "such a structure without an upfront transfer fee aids Atlanta’s pursuit as the club revamp the squad this winter."
It remains unclear if Celtic would be open to the prospect of loaning the striker to the America this season with a bid on the table from Urawa Red Diamonds. A stalemate could see Giakoumakis remain in Glasgow's east end, where he now face competition from new signing Hyeongyu Oh as well as Kyogo Furuhashi.
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