Done Deal: Adam Idah FINALLY seals permanent Celtic return after summer-long transfer saga comes… Full Story👇
Adam Idah FINALLY seals permanent Celtic return after summer-long transfer saga comes… Full Story👇
Adam Idah has officially returned to Celtic on a permanent basis, concluding a summer-long transfer saga that has kept fans and the club on edge. The 23-year-old Republic of Ireland international previously made a significant impact during a loan spell from Norwich City last season, where he played a crucial role in Celtic’s successful campaign, helping them secure both the league title and the Scottish Cup.
Idah initially joined Celtic on loan in January, with his performances quickly making him a fan favorite. Despite the absence of an option to make the move permanent, his contributions were undeniable. One of his most memorable moments came in a dramatic late-season push, where he scored a decisive penalty in a come-from-behind win against Hibernian at Easter Road. He also found the back of the net in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Rangers, further endearing himself to the Celtic faithful.
The striker’s impact was felt even more deeply during the closing stages of the season. Idah opened the scoring in a 5-0 demolition of Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, a victory that secured the league title for Celtic. His most significant contribution, however, came in the Scottish Cup final, where he netted a 90th-minute winner against Rangers, ensuring a domestic double for the Hoops and cementing his status as a key player.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers had been vocal about his desire to bring Idah back on a permanent deal, praising his attributes and potential. However, negotiations with Norwich City proved challenging. The Hoops’ initial bid of £4 million was swiftly rejected, as Norwich’s new manager, Johannes Hoff Thorup, wanted to evaluate Idah’s potential following his return from loan. Idah’s situation at Norwich became further complicated when he missed the team’s flight to a pre-season training camp in Austria. Although he was initially punished for this, he was eventually reinstated and even featured as a substitute in Norwich’s opening league game against Oxford United, although he was unable to prevent a 2-0 defeat.
Despite these setbacks, Celtic remained determined to secure Idah’s services. After lengthy negotiations, a final transfer fee of up to £9.5 million was agreed upon, with an initial payment exceeding £6 million. Additionally, Norwich inserted a 15% sell-on clause as part of the deal. The agreement was finalized this week, with Idah signing a five-year contract to become a permanent member of the Celtic squad.
Upon completing his return to Parkhead, Idah expressed his excitement and relief at the move, emphasizing his long-standing desire to remain at Celtic. “I think everyone knew where I wanted to be,” Idah stated. “It’s amazing for me and I’m delighted to be back. It was amazing to get all of those goals and to be in with the boys and to see these amazing fans week in, week out was unbelievable.”
He further reflected on his initial loan spell, noting how quickly he felt at home with the club. “Within the first couple of days of being here when I came on loan the first time, I wanted to play for Celtic. I always wanted to play for Celtic, and obviously, last season was amazing. To come here now and be fully a part of the team and a part of this club is amazing to me. Everyone back home, all my family and friends, they all wanted me to come back to Celtic, myself included, so it’s massive, and I’m just so happy to be here.”
Brendan Rodgers also shared his enthusiasm for Idah’s return, praising both the player’s abilities and the club’s efforts in securing the deal. “We are delighted to welcome Adam back to Celtic on a permanent basis, and we are so pleased that he has agreed to this new five-year contract with the club. The club has done brilliantly to secure this long-term deal. We are investing in a player of real quality who will be crucial for us over the next few years,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers emphasized the importance of Idah’s role last season and his potential to be a key player moving forward. “He played a pivotal role in our success last year, and I know he can be hugely important for us again. Adam has fantastic attributes, and he is a dynamic, hungry, committed player who can make a real difference. Really importantly, Adam feels at home at Celtic; he has a love and passion for the club, and I know he will be giving everything to once again bring our fans success.”
Idah’s permanent return to Celtic follows that of another loan success story, Paulo Bernardo, who rejoined the club earlier this month. With these additions, Celtic is positioning itself strongly for the upcoming season, aiming to build on the successes of last year with a team that has already proven its capability to deliver under pressure.
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