Giorgos Giakoumakis has completed his move away from Celtic, joining MLS side Atlanta United.
Record Sport exclusively revealed in November that the Greek striker was ready for a shock Parkhead exit and he has now sealed his departure after swapping the east end of Glasgow for a move across the Big Pond, with the American outfit trumping Urawa Red Diamonds who were keen to take him to Japan. Ange Postecoglou had insisted the deal was no longer on his radar with a move seemingly imminent and it has now been confirmed by both clubs.
Giakoumakis couldn't agree on an improved contract with the Scottish Premiership champions and, like Josip Juranovic, has moved on after clinching a more lucrative contact elsewhere. Giakoumakis finished joint top scorer of the Scottish Premiership in 2021/22 to help fire the Hoops to the title but have signed Oh Hyeon-Gyu on a five-year deal.
The move was confirmed in a statement on Giakoumakis's Instagram. He posted: "Well, that difficult time has arrived! It was an incredible journey! I loved and was loved by the incomparable, amazing Celtic fans! Thank you very much! You will forever be in my heart and mind! I will be forever grateful to you! Goodbye. Your GG!"
Giakoumakis had been heavily linked with a switch to big-spending J League outfit Urawa Red Diamonds. They and Atlanta seemed to be leading the race ahead of each other at varying points, but the MLS franchise have got their man and couldn't resist a dig at their competitors for the Greek's signature. They posted a video announcing a flight change from Saipan to Atlanta
Postecoglou was asked about the transfers situation last week regarding Giakoumakis. He said it was "off his radar" and that social media would find out before him. A Celtic statement read: "Giorgos Giakoumakis has joined Atlanta United on a permanent transfer. Everyone at #CelticFC thanks Giorgos for his efforts for the Club and wishes him good luck in Atlanta."
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