Atlanta United are still “trying” to hijack Urawa Red Diamonds’ move for Celtic striker Giorgos Giakoumakis, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The trusted journalist claims that the MLS club are keen to muscle in on negotiations despite the fact that Urawa have already agreed a €4m (£3.5m) fee for the player:
Urawa Red Diamonds have reached an agreement with Celtic for transfer of Giōrgos Giakoumakīs. Understand it’s €4m package. 🟢🇯🇵🇬🇷 #transfers
MLS side Atlanta still trying to sign the player — while personal terms are still under discussion with Urawa. pic.twitter.com/VsCtH2xKbC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 16, 2023
Whether Giakoumakis joins either team, it seems as though the Hoops won’t be making as big a profit on his sale as they would have hoped.
The Greek international made the switch from VVV Venlo in 2021 for £2.5m, which means the Scottish champions are only going to make around £1m.
Considering that it had been reported that Celtic wanted £6m for Giakoumakis, that doesn’t seem like a great deal from the outside looking in.
The 28-year-old still has three and a half years left on his contract and, while it is common knowledge that he wants to leave to earn a higher salary, you do feel that the club should have held out for more.