Celtic transfer hijack CONFIRMED as new signing announced

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 16 Jan 2026 14:53 GMT
• 5 min read

News

Sunderland have officially announced the signing of Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi, who had looked set to join Celtic this month.

The 20-year-old, who was on loan at Hapoel Petah Tikva from Maccabi Netanya during the first half of the season, was widely tipped to complete a move to Celtic Park in January after the Hoops reached an agreement over a deal worth just shy of €3 million.

However, his medical with Martin O’Neill’s side reportedly flagged up an ankle problem and the Scottish giants opted to withdraw from negotiations over a January deal.

Premier League side Sunderland soon emerged as possible suitors for Ta Bi and they have now announced the Ivorian's arrival on a four-and-a-half year deal.

Following confirmation of his move to the Stadium of Light, the 20-year-old told the official Sunderland website: "Playing in the Premier League has always been a dream of mine, and I’m incredibly excited for what’s ahead.

"I know there’s still plenty of work to do, and pushing myself every day and improving is something I’m fully committed to. We have some special things ahead of us at Sunderland, and I’m looking forward to taking this journey together."

Krisjaan Speakman, Sunderland's sporting director, added: "We’re delighted to reach an agreement for Jocelin to join Sunderland. A dynamic and explosive wide player who enjoys attacking duels, predominantly from the right side, he is a player with high potential, and we will integrate him patiently into our Club.

"We believe in the player, and we believe in our approach to developing talent, so we are looking forward to starting the journey with him, and I’m sure our supporters will also enjoy the attributes he brings to our team."

Ta Bi scored two goals and provided two assists in 12 matches in the Israeli top flight during the first half of the 2025-26 campaign and he has become Sunderland’s first signing of the January transfer window.

Who will Celtic sign this month?

While a deal for Ta Bi is off the table, Celtic are still set to be active in the transfer market before the end of Deadline Day on 2 February.

The Scottish giants are expected to sign a new centre forward before the winter window closes, with Hibernian star Kieron Bowie, West Ham United frontman Callum Wilson, NK Celje striker Franko Kovacevic and Chelsea outcast David Datro Fofana all on their radar.

However, a move for Kyogo Furuhashi has been ruled out, with the former Hoops striker set to remain at Birmingham City until at least this summer.

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