Celtic Close In on Chelsea Striker Shim Mheuka as Loan Moves Take Shape
Celtic are on the verge of securing Chelsea striker Shim Mheuka on a season-long loan, with the 18-year-old having completed a medical in Glasgow, as reported by the Daily Express. The move brings one of Chelsea's most promising young forwards to Celtic Park for the remainder of the campaign.
Mheuka, an England Under-19 international, recently signed a new contract at Stamford Bridge, and the extension is expected to be formally announced alongside his temporary move to Scotland, according to the same report. GIVEMESPORT, citing Sky Sports News, reports that Mheuka is undergoing a medical in London on transfer deadline day in England ahead of the proposed loan. The Scottish transfer window, by contrast, does not close until Thursday, giving Celtic additional time to conclude their business.
Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone Set for Celtic Move
In a separate deal, Celtic have agreed a season-long loan with Wolverhampton Wanderers for goalkeeper Sam Johnstone. The 33-year-old has travelled to Scotland to undergo a medical, with the Parkhead club set to cover a substantial portion of his wages as they seek experienced competition for first-choice goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo.
Johnstone was informed by Wolves head coach César Peixoto that he does not feature in the club's future plans following their influx of alternative goalkeeping options, according to Daily Express reporting. The England international's arrival would provide Celtic with a seasoned option between the posts as they prepare for the second half of the season.
Midfield Targets Identified
Celtic's transfer activity extends beyond the goalkeeper and striker positions. Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis remains a target for the Scottish champions after they submitted a fresh, improved proposal to the Serie A club, as reported by the Daily Express. Torino have held out for a valuation closer to £9m, with initial bids in the region of £6.5m turned down.
The Glasgow club has also made an official loan approach to Crystal Palace for 21-year-old midfielder Justin Devenny, while PSV Eindhoven midfielder Joel van den Berg has received a formal bid. Celtic previously reached an agreement to bring Chelsea defender Landon Emenalo to the club as defensive cover, according to the Daily Express.
Chelsea have additionally offered Ecuador international winger Kendry Páez to Celtic on a season-long loan, with the Blues looking to secure regular playing time for the young wide player.