Celtic Receive Boost In Pursuit Of This Colombian Attacker: Why He Should Be Viewed As Maeda’s Successor | OneFootball

In a recent interview with the Azerbaijan outlet MediaNews.AZ, Qarabag manager Qurban Qurbanov has hinted at potential player exits in the wake of the latest reports on Camilo Duran. Celtic have identified the striking ace as one of their transfer targets, as the champions of Scotland aim for attacking reinforcements in the summer window.

Qurbanov responded, “It is possible,” when asked whether he expects departures in the coming days. Qarabag failed to defend the league crown last season. But the attacker was impressive up top, firing 15 goals and assisting 10 times in 45 appearances for the Azerbaijan heavyweights across competitions [stats via Transfermarket].

The 24-year-old Colombian progressed through Cozi Córner Niko, Huracán La Ocho and Independiente Medellín’s academy ranks before spending a loan stint in Brazil with Flamengo. He then left for Portugal and joined the fifth-tier side Lusitânia. An impressive scoring run earned him a move to the top-flight side Estrela Amadora. However, the youngster was only involved for the reserves and the lack of first-team opportunities led to his return to Lusitânia in January 2024.

Duran’s scoring streak helped them secure promotion to the third tier. Second division outfit Portimonense snapped him up in September, but they sanctioned his transfer to Qarabag a year later for a fee in the region of €200k.

What He Would Offer At Celtic

Despite a slow start to life in Azerbaijan, Duran excelled as a ‘number 9’ in the second half of the season. But he is capable of featuring across the frontline, particularly down the right as an inverted winger. He netted 5 goals in 10 UEFA Champions League outings, and the Hoops, actively looking for a new centre-forward, are impressed by his profile, given the ongoing conundrum in the attacking third.

BILBAO, SPAIN – OCTOBER 22: Yuri Berchiche of Athletic Club is challenged by Camilo Duran of Qarabag during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Athletic Club and Qarabag FK at Estadio de San Mames on October 22, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Martin O’Neill has penned a permanent contract after conquering a ‘domestic double’ as an interim boss. But the veteran Northern Irishman has reiterated the need to bolster the squad, including high up the pitch, after unsuccessful loan signings of Tomas Cvancara, Junior Adamu and Joel Mvuka. The trio were late inclusions in the winer but have now returned to their respective clubs, failing to make a difference in the Celtic attack.

Why Duran Holds All The Traits To Emulate Maeda’s Influence

Although Kelechi Iheanacho scored several crucial goals as a ‘super sub’ en route to winning their fifth league title in a row, the club have not yet decided whether to retain him for one more season. His persistent fitness woes remain a concern, and the likelihood of wantaway Daizen Maeda’s potential exit would further decimate their options.

Duran’s style of play resembles that of the Japanese hitman, as he is regarded for his agility, sharp runs and intelligence in the final third. His lack of physical presence might trouble him against the aggressive centre-backs. But the goals he scored against giants like Benfica, Ajax, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Newcastle United demonstrate his ability and efficiency in the penalty area.