Luis Palma appears set to depart Celtic this month, although his destination remains uncertain ahead of next week’s transfer deadline day. The impending return of Jota highlights what has been an underwhelming 18 months at the club for Palma, following a promising start to his time in Glasgow.
The Honduran winger was signed as a replacement for Jota back in the summer of 2023, but has failed to live up to the high standards set by the Rennes wideman during his two years at Celtic. With several clubs rumoured to be interested in Palma, one of his former rivals’ sides has now entered the race.
That team is, of course, PAOK, with The Scottish Sun reporting that Răzvan Lucescu’s side are now interested, alongside fellow Super League clubs Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, who are also circling. Palma’s time at Aris Thessaloniki has given them the opportunity to observe him up close, as the Celtic winger previously spent a year in Greece from 2022 to 2023.
There would certainly be no issues with him readapting to life in the Super League.
However, with a number of English Championship sides keeping an eye on Palma and consistent links to MLS, he will not be short of options.
Despite failing to secure a starting spot at Celtic, at 25, his best years are still ahead of him. Having consistently impressed for the Honduran national team, his career may take a positive turn away from the Hoops in a move that could benefit everyone.
Palma was reportedly set to jet to Spain just a fortnight ago to sign for Rayo Vallecano on a loan deal with an option to buy for €2.5 million (£2.1 million).
However, a ban on the La Liga side signing players by FIFA meant the deal stalled. With other clubs continually interested, it means Palma’s future is still very much up in the air.
