Celtic have completed a deadline-busting swap for AC Milan left-back Diego Lakshalt.
Uruguay have gone parkhead on an international season-long loan deal – ending Neil Lennon’s summer quest for a problem situation.
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Lakshalt, who competes in Serie A and the 2018 World Cup, comes with a large pedigree.
The lightning fast 27-year-old joined Genoa from Milan in a ડો 12.5 million switch two years ago.
Signed by former Rangers hero Rino Gatuso, he has made 35 appearances for Rosoneri, but spent last season on loan with Torino.
And now, the versatile star – who could also play as a winger and center midfielder – will spend the campaign in Scotland as he aims to help Celtic win ten historic ten-in-row-wins.
Speaking about his move in Glasgow, he told the Celtic website: “I am very happy to have signed for a world-renowned club.
“It’s a club with a lot of tradition and I can’t wait to get on the football pitch.
“I know there are no games this weekend but I will start training and I can’t wait to meet my new teammates.
“And for me, when we’re standing in the tunnel and then out on the field, that’s when we start building and building memories as a team.
“I heard the rumors a week ago, but I didn’t want to take anything seriously until I was sure. I was very quiet about it, but when I heard that it was happening, I couldn’t believe it and I’m so happy that it has become a reality.
“I can’t think of another Uruguayan player to play for Celtic, so I realize I’m the first. I am very happy about it and I am a player who likes to leave everything on the pitch when I play.
“I’m very happy. I love the colors and can’t wait to wear a strip in a match.”
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After starting his career with hometown club defender Sporting, Lakshallet made his big move to Europe in 2013 with Inter Milan – but did not play a single minute for the Italian Giants.
Before joining permanently in 2016, he spent time on loan at Bologna, Empoli and Genoa.
The 24-time capped defender was Uruguay’s standout player in the 2018 World Cup, helping his country reach the quarterfinals before beating eventual winners France.
Top boy Diego Lakshalt led Parkhead’s move through Uruguayan boss Tabarez and former Inter Milan Gaffar Mazzari
Lakshalt could now face its parent club in the Europa League group stage, with Celts and Milan Sparta Prague and Lille together in Group H.
A trip to Glasgow for the group stage opener next to Stefano Pioli on Thursday 22 October – and all eyes will be on Lakshalt.
Lakshalt, wearing the number 3 j jersey, added: “I am very happy to share new memories with Oliver again.
“We spent a lot of time with Oliver at Genoa when we played there, and he is a very good player and also a good person. So I am very happy and looking forward to playing with him again.
“It’s just a coincidence that Celtic and A.C. Milan are drawn in the same group, but at the moment my head and my heart are with Celtic and I will go to try my best, even if it protests, whether it is Milan or whoever. My heart is with Celtic now. ”
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