Sunderland snatch Ivorian star Jocelin Ta Bi from under Celtic’s noses in £3.5m deal | OneFootball

Sunderland have reached an agreement to sign winger Jocelin Ta Bi, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Ta Bi had been strongly linked with Celtic and appeared close to a move to Glasgow earlier in the winter transfer window.

A verbal agreement was in place, and the player spoke publicly about his excitement at the prospect of joining the Scottish Premiership club.

That move stalled after concerns about an ankle ligament injury were raised during a medical, prompting Celtic to pause negotiations.

Sunderland subsequently moved quickly to position themselves as serious contenders.

Despite denials from Celtic-linked sources and claims that the Black Cats were no longer in the running, negotiations continued behind the scenes.

Sunderland have agreed a deal worth around £3.5 million, with Ta Bi set to sign a five-year contract.

The agreement represents Sunderland’s first signing of the winter transfer window. It underlines their intent to build on a strong return to the Premier League following promotion via the play-offs.

The 20-year-old has spent the past 18 months on loan at Hapoel Petah Tikva from Maccabi Netanya.

He played a key role in their promotion last season and has continued to impress in the Israeli top flight.

Ta Bi has registered two goals and two assists in 12 league appearances this term.

Predominantly deployed on the right wing, Ta Bi is left-footed and comfortable operating across the front line.

He is rated as a player with significant development potential rather than an immediate guaranteed starter.

Sunderland’s recruitment strategy since promotion has focused heavily on young, high-upside talent.

The club’s Premier League status played a decisive role in turning the player’s head.