GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JANUARY 03: Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson, chief financial officer Chris McKay and interim chairman Brian Wilson during a William Hill Premiership match between Celtic and Rangers at Celtic Park, on January 03, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Foy/SNS Group via Getty Images)
March 26, 2026
Celtic could be handed a major boost heading into the summer, with the club now in a strong position to turn one of their most promising loan deals into a permanent signing.
After a frustrating 2025 to 26 campaign, any positive momentum will feel like a step in the right direction.
The Hoops have struggled for consistency all season, and the recent 2 0 defeat to Dundee United summed up their problems. That result marked their eighth league loss and left them five points behind leaders Hearts with just seven games remaining. With an inferior goal difference as well, the title race is quickly slipping out of reach.
It means attention is already starting to shift towards what comes next.
There is a clear need for a reset, both on and off the pitch. And one of the smartest moves Celtic could make is securing players who have already proven they can handle the pressure at Parkhead.
That brings the focus straight to Julian Araujo.
Bournemouth Happy to Sell Julian Araujo:
There is growing optimism that a deal could be there for Celtic to take.
Reports suggest Bournemouth are willing to allow Araujo to leave permanently this summer, opening the door for the Scottish side to make their move. After arriving on loan in January, the Mexico international has settled quickly and made a strong impression.
Crucially, there is no resistance from his parent club if the player decides he wants to stay.
That alone puts Celtic in a very strong negotiating position.
Supporters have already warmed to the 24 year old, especially during the period when Alistair Johnston was sidelined through injury. His performances have brought energy and aggression down the right side, something that had been missing at times earlier in the season.
With Johnston now back in training, Celtic are not just looking for a starter, but for real competition in that position.
And Araujo fits that profile perfectly.
Araujo Open to Permanent Celtic Move:
There is another key factor working in Celtic’s favour.
Araujo himself is believed to be open to staying in Glasgow. After adapting quickly to the environment and the demands of Scottish football, the defender appears comfortable with the idea of making the move permanent.
Under Martin O’Neill, he has shown flashes of real quality, enough to convince many that he could play an important role next season.
With a major squad rebuild expected, having players who already understand the system and expectations could be a huge advantage. Rather than starting from scratch, Celtic would be adding someone who can hit the ground running.
That kind of continuity could prove vital after such a disappointing campaign.
It is also worth remembering the praise he received earlier in the year, having been described as being “really talented” when he first arrived in January.
Celtic Choose Robbie Keane as Preferred Manager Candidate:
While decisions are being made on the pitch, the situation in the dugout remains just as important.
Celtic still need to appoint a permanent manager, and that choice will shape everything moving forward. Martin O’Neill has steadied things in the short term, but there is no guarantee he will remain beyond the current campaign.
Attention is already turning towards potential replacements.
Robbie Keane is emerging as a strong candidate, with the former Celtic striker currently enjoying success in Hungary. His work at Ferencvaros has put him on the radar, and there is a growing belief he could be the man to lead the next phase.
However, the situation is not entirely straightforward.
Keane is also being linked with a return to Tottenham, although he is not currently among their top options. That could change depending on how things unfold in north London, especially if their season takes an unexpected turn.
For Celtic, timing could be everything.
Between the managerial decision and the need for a squad rebuild, this summer is shaping up to be one of the most important in recent memory. Securing Araujo early would be a strong start, and a signal that the club are serious about getting back to where they believe they belong.
