Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph reports that the A-League side are checking what conditions would allow them to make the move happen. Celtic signed Tilio in July 2023 for around £1.5 million, but he’s already been back at Melbourne twice on loan since February 2024.
Tilio has a strong link with Melbourne City. He won young player of the year in Australia in the 2021–22 season. His recent loan spells have helped him get back to regular football and he’s shown his qualities again in familiar surroundings. Now Melbourne City are keen to keep him longer, possibly for good.
At Celtic, chances have been limited. He arrived with potential, but has found it hard to break into the starting line-up. With several wide players already at the club, getting minutes has been tough. That’s why a return to Melbourne made sense earlier this year. Now the question is whether Celtic want to keep him in the squad, send him out again, or cash in.
Celtic have a big squad and plenty of options in wide areas. Brendan Rodgers has used players like James Forrest, Daizen Maeda, and Yang Hyun-jun. That makes it hard for someone like Tilio to get a regular game. His style, which includes pace and good dribbling, is useful, but he’s not had many chances to show it in Scotland.
Melbourne City think he could be an important player for them again. They know what he brings and he knows the league well.
A deal to bring him back would make sense for both sides, but it depends on the details. Celtic will want a fair fee if they agree to sell, and might still believe he has something to offer in the future.
Talks between the clubs are expected to continue. It’s possible something could be sorted before the new A-League season starts in October.
Tilio’s future is still up in the air, but both clubs will want to find the best outcome. If Celtic don’t see a place for him, Melbourne City are ready to step in and make the most of the situation.
Whether it’s another loan or a permanent transfer, what’s clear is that Tilio’s time in Australia has helped him get back into form. What happens next depends on how much Celtic value him and how much Melbourne City are willing to pay.
