Adam Idah insists he always had his heart set on a move to Celtic after finally sealing his permanent transfer from Norwich City in a deal worth up to £9.5million.
The Republic of Ireland international striker has signed a five-year deal with the Scottish champions after an impressive loan stint during the second half of last season.
His arrival followed news that Southampton have all but pulled out of the race to sign midfielder Matt O’Riley, potentially paving the way for a move to Atalanta.
Idah scored nine goals in 19 matches last term, including a late winner against Rangers in the Scottish Cup final as Celtic completed a domestic Double.
Despite a protracted pursuit as Celtic and Norwich sought to thrash out a deal, the 23-year-old last night claimed his heart was always in Glasgow.
‘I think everyone knew where I wanted to be,’ said Idah. ‘It’s amazing for me and I’m delighted to be back.
Adam Idah is clearly delighted to be back at Celtic Park after his move from Norwich
The Irish striker gets reacquainted with the dressing rooms following his return
Adam Idah is looking forward to wearing the No9 shirt now he is a permanent signing
‘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.
‘I’ve never experienced anything like it and I’m just so happy to be back.
‘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.’
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers’ believes it’s a statement of intent for the club to fork out a significant fee and tie Idah down on a long-term deal.
‘We are delighted to welcome Adam back to Celtic on a permanent basis and we are so pleased he has agreed this new five-year contract with the club,’ said Rodgers.
‘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.
Celtic fans hope to see the kind of form that saw Idah score winner in Scottish Cup final
The Irishman became a favourite with Celtic fans after they were initially unsure about him
Southampton have pulled out of the running for Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley
‘He has already has given us so much, performing fantastically for us on loan and really delivering for the club and our fans last season.
‘Adam has fantastic attributes and 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.’
Meanwhile, Southampton have backed out of the race to sign O’Riley.
Preparing for their return to the Premier League, the St Mary’s club are understood to have lodged a bid for the Denmark international earlier this summer.
While they could yet return to the table with an improved offer after their season opener at Newcastle on Saturday, manager Russell Martin is adamant that the 23-year-old is not currently on their radar.
Asked about the chances of going back in for the player - believed to be the subject of a previous £14million bid from the club - ex-Scotland defender Martin said: ‘We’re not in the race right now.’
That leaves Atalanta as clear favourites to sign the Parkhead star. Reports in Italy on Wednesday night claimed the Europa League winners had tabled a renewed bid of £21.5m.
Even with add-ons believed to amount to £1.7m, the package still falls short of Celtic’s £25m valuation for a player whose contract runs until 2027.
Atalanta, who will compete in the Champions League this season, are unlikely to take no for an answer, having just agreed a deal to sell Dutch international Teun Koopmeiners to Juventus.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side xxxxx against Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup last night.
Leicester and Brighton could yet enter the race for O’Riley, who joined Celtic from MK Dons for £1.5m in 2022.