Arsenal and Chelsea stars join as £25m man returns in triple deal – Celtic’s dream January

Celtic are poised to make 2025 a year for the history books, with their performance in the January transfer window potentially playing a crucial role. Brendan Rodgers’ side are on track for their ninth domestic treble after defeating arch-rivals Rangers in a penalty shootout during last month’s League Cup final.

They’re also eyeing a second Invincibles campaign following their 2016/17 achievement, with 16 victories and two draws in the Scottish Premiership so far. And this could be the year they advance to the Champions League knockout stages for the first time since 2013.

With just two matches left in the newly revamped league phase, Celtic are within the qualification zone, having secured two wins and three draws from six games. However, to maintain their momentum across all competitions, Rodgers could use a fruitful winter transfer window, both in terms of arrivals and departures.

Jota’s return is sealed

A fantastic late Christmas gift could arrive in the form of former loanee-turned-permanent acquisition Jota. The Portuguese winger’s career has been in a slump since his £25million transfer to the Saudi Pro League’s Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023.

His subsequent move to Ligue 1 side Rennes hasn’t sparked a revival, and he seems to have fallen out of favour under new manager Jorge Sampaoli. According to French media reports, a January exit – either permanently or on loan – is now on the cards.

It’s no secret that Rodgers needs depth in the wide forward positions, so a return to Celtic Park is certainly a sensible move for all involved. But the homecomings may not end there.

Kieran Tierney agreement reached

The former Celtic man, who has perhaps learned that the grass isn’t always greener, is well aware his time at Arsenal is nearing its end, with his contract set to expire at season’s close. He’s now free to negotiate with clubs outside England.

Much like Jota, a return to the club where he shone seems the most obvious solution. Securing a pre-contract agreement ahead of next season would be beneficial, albeit not immediately.

There’s hopefully potential to expedite the process and get Tierney back into regular action sooner. Despite his injury history, his presence alone in the dressing room would be a significant boost for Rodgers.

Carney Chukwuemeka signs on loan

Chukwuemeka is another name heavily linked with the green side of Glasgow. The 21-year-old Chelsea midfielder has only been used as a substitute in their Conference League B team this season.

It’s highly likely he’ll be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge on loan, rather than activating his £40million release clause. Celtic seem to face competition from his former side Aston Villa.

However, Rodgers has the advantage of being able to offer Chukwuemeka far more regular game time than the Premier League club, which is ultimately what he needs most.

Cameron Carter-Vickers stays

Celtic’s impressive first half of the season could be jeopardised if they allow key player Carter-Vickers to leave in the January transfer window. The American defender is reportedly on the radar of Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen.

Rodgers’s recent comments, largely shutting down the speculation, were a positive indication that no sum will be enough to sanction a premature exit for him.

He said: “Listen, I haven’t seen anything of that, to be honest. I suspect there will be interest in all our players and lots of gossip and speculation going about. But no, I think our idea is to improve our squad.”

Welsh and Palma depart

While Carter-Vickers is deemed crucial, it’s unrealistic to expect new signings without some departures. Rodgers has a wealth of defensive options and is prepared to loan Stephen Welsh to KV Mechelen.

This move would benefit all parties involved. It also seems logical to find a new club for Luis Palma, whose Celtic career appears to be dwindling after a disappointing year.

The potential exits of Welsh and Palma won’t significantly impact Rodgers’ plans, but it will free up resources to enhance his squad elsewhere. This could result in an ideal January transfer window for Celtic.