Giorgos Giakoumakis looks set for a return to Greek football, with a loan move to PAOK reportedly in the final stages of negotiation. [RecordSport]
The former Celtic striker has been in Mexico with Cruz Azul since January 2024, making the switch following a prolific spell in MLS with Atlanta United.
His time in the United States saw him break club scoring records and earn a reputation as one of the league’s most lethal finishers.
Now, reports from Greece indicate that PAOK are closing in on his signature, with a season-long loan believed to be the likely arrangement. The move would reunite Giakoumakis with a familiar face in Greg Taylor, who joined the Thessaloniki club earlier this summer after departing Celtic.
Giakoumakis remains a popular figure among the Celtic support after his time at Parkhead. Signed in 2021 from VVV-Venlo, the Greek forward played a crucial role in helping Ange Postecoglou’s side reclaim the Premiership title in his debut season.
His physical presence, poaching instincts, and knack for scoring vital goals quickly made him a key figure in the attack.
However, opportunities became limited in his second campaign, and by early 2023 he made the switch to Atlanta United. The move to Mexico followed last year, but his spell at Cruz Azul has not gone as planned, with limited game time prompting a search for regular football elsewhere.
PAOK are pushing to finalise the deal in the coming days, and Giakoumakis could be set for a quick introduction to his new side as they prepare for the start of the Super League season.
For the striker, a return to familiar surroundings could provide the platform to rediscover his best form.
