Celtic’s attempt to land Maccabi Netanya winger Jocelyn Ta Bi has hit a setback after medical tests showed the 20-year-old will need surgery, Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph has reported.
Martin O’Neill had been close to securing the Ivorian attacker as his first addition since succeeding Wilfried Nancy last week, but Celtic may now be forced to explore alternative targets as they look to strengthen their attacking ranks.
Ta Bi now appears unlikely to finalise his £2m switch to Celtic Park, despite agreeing personal terms with the Scottish champions last week.
The 20-year-old had spoken recently about his excitement over a potential move, describing the chance to play for the Hoops as a ‘dream come true’.
Celtic move for Jocelyn Ta Bi stalls:
Joseph stated on X that Ta Bi’s transfer to Celtic ‘looks to have stalled’ after a medical assessment revealed the winger requires an operation.
Ta Bi was expected to become Celtic’s second arrival of the January transfer window, following defender Julian Araujo’s loan move from Premier League outfit Bournemouth.
Reports last week suggested Celtic had dispatched members of their medical team to Israel to carry out Ta Bi’s examination in a bid to wrap up the deal swiftly.
The Ivorian forward was set to sign a four-and-a-half-year contract and is thought to have turned down interest from clubs in France, Belgium and Turkey in order to join Celtic.
Ta Bi is currently enjoying a second consecutive loan spell with Israeli side Hapoel Petah Tikva, where he has netted two goals and registered two assists in 12 appearances.