Diego Laxalt has revealed that he was aware of interest from Celtic a week ago.
During that time frame he sat on the bench through AC Milan’s dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Rio Ave then watched Celtic come out the Europa League draw with his current club.
Celtic’s interest appears to have firmed up during Sunday with the formalities put in motion ahead of the 9.25pm announcement on Deadline Day.
I heard rumours about a week ago but I didn’t take it seriously until I was absolutely certain.
Laxalt hasn’t had any playing time this season but arrives at Celtic with a hefty weight of expectation on his shoulders.
Celtic’s switch to playing 3-5-2 in January saw Neil Lennon’s side race out of sight towards a ninth successive title but that formation hasn’t clicked this season.
Sunday’s win at St Johnstone provided proof that two strikers are available but the left-hand side of the park hasn’t been as effective as the right where Jeremie Frimpong has been in excellent form.
If Laxalt can provide that alongside some Uruguayan muscle Celtic’s prospects for the season ahead look much improved on the back of one signing.