Joel Mvuka completed a loan move to Celtic after a late medical complication threatened to derail the transfer, admitting his relief at seeing the move finally go through…
The Lorient winger became a key target for the Scottish champions over the weekend alongside Junior Adamu, with the club having long sought a right-sided winger.
Mvuka arrives in Glasgow hoping the move can boost his chances of earning a place in Norway’s squad for this summer’s World Cup.
The transfer had originally been structured as a £3million permanent deal, but concerns raised during his medical cast uncertainty over the agreement.
Celtic subsequently renegotiated the terms, instead securing a loan arrangement that includes an option to buy at the end of the season. Mvuka has found it difficult to re-establish himself at Lorient following two successful loan spells with Bodo/Glimt.
Now, the 22-year-old believes he is ready to make an immediate contribution to Martin O’Neill’s side.
Mvuka said via Celtic’s official website: “It feels really good to finally be here. The thing that sits in my mind from playing at Celtic Park was before the game when the fans were singing You’ll Never Walk Alone, and I thought ‘Wow!’
“I was a team-mate of Sebastian Tounekti’s at Bodo/Glimt and I know him very well so I can’t wait to finally see him again. I’m a fast winger, I can play left or right, and I’m good with the ball, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Meanwhile, Martin O’Neill said of signing Mvuka: “Joel is a talented player who has a very good level of experience achieved at some really good clubs.”
“He will give the squad another option, he is very quick, able to play on both wings and I am sure he will make a very positive contribution to the club.”
“I know he is very excited about joining Celtic and we are hoping he can make a great impact for us.”
Welcome to Celtic Joel.
Conor Spence
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