SCOTTISH TRANSFER STORM: CELTIC NAME FOUR PRIORITY SIGNINGS AS HEARTS ANNOUNCE NEW STAR & RANGERS MAKE LOAN MOVE

With the New Year fast approaching, Scottish football fans know exactly what that means — the January transfer window is almost upon us. Clubs across the Premiership are already moving behind the scenes, scouting, negotiating and shaping their squads for the second half of the season. From Celtic’s pursuit of key reinforcements to Hearts securing an exciting long-term signing and Rangers preparing to reshape their roster through loans, there is no shortage of transfer intrigue.

Here is a full look at the latest developments.

Hearts confirm long-term signing of Jordi Altena

League leaders Hearts have wasted no time in strengthening ahead of the window officially opening. The club has announced the arrival of Dutch right-back Jordi Altena, who joins from RKC Waalwijk on a deal running until 2029. Subject to international clearance and Scottish FA approval, the 22-year-old will officially become a Hearts player on January 1.

Altena’s career began in the Netherlands with Vitesse, where he made his senior debut in September 2023. Since then, he has gained valuable first-team experience, including a spell with De Treffers before impressing in the Eerste Divisie with Waalwijk. His attacking output stands out — four goals and eight assists in just 23 appearances, excellent numbers for a right-back.

Hearts boss Derek McInnes expressed his delight at securing the defender so early in the window.

“It’s good that we’re able to get our business started so early,” he said. “We have strong competition across the pitch, but I’ve spoken before about looking to strengthen in certain areas. Jordi has the attributes that will really benefit us, and I believe the supporters will enjoy the style of football he brings.”

Supporters will take encouragement from the club’s ambition, particularly as Hearts look determined to maintain their strong position at the top of the Premiership table.

Celtic identify four key transfer targets

Across Glasgow, Celtic are preparing for a busy January under new head coach Wilfried Nancy. Reports suggest the club has already pinpointed four priority positions, reflecting the French-Canadian manager’s clear vision for the squad. Celtic are believed to be targeting:

A right-back

A right-sided centre-back

A right winger

A striker

More arrivals could follow depending on player departures.

One name high on the wishlist is Julián Araujo, the Bournemouth right-back and Mexico international. Signed from Barcelona for £8.5 million around 18 months ago, Araujo has found first-team opportunities limited in the Premier League. Nancy is familiar with the player from his MLS days, and Celtic are reportedly keen on a loan deal that could benefit all parties.

Celtic have also been linked with Diego Rossi, the former LAFC star currently with Columbus Crew. However, it is thought that prising the Uruguay international away from Nancy’s former club would require a significant financial commitment.

Other potential attacking reinforcements include Ivory Coast winger Jocelin Ta Bi, currently with Hapoel Petah Tikva, and Ibrahim Diabate of Swedish side GAIS. With pace, flair and flexibility among Nancy’s key attributes, January could see a notable reshaping of Celtic’s forward options.

Rangers consider loaning out two first-team players

Rangers, meanwhile, are preparing for movement in the opposite direction. Reports indicate that the Ibrox club are ready to sanction loan exits for Lyall Cameron and Findlay Curtis in search of more regular football.

Both players made encouraging starts earlier in the campaign. Curtis especially caught the eye, scoring three goals in the opening month of the season, including a strike against Panathinaikos in Champions League qualifying. However, opportunities have dried up following the arrival of manager Danny Rohl, and neither player has enjoyed consistent minutes.

Cameron, a summer signing from Dundee, has played just 13 minutes as a substitute under the new boss. A loan move is now seen as the best option to preserve development and confidence.

Rangers’ American ownership group are also expected to back the manager with new signings after criticism of the summer recruitment. The club has already been linked with Westerlo’s Tuur Rommens, a left-back, and Wrexham forward Josh Windass, whose return to Scottish football would certainly generate headlines.

A window set to shape the title race

With the Premiership title race and European qualification battles finely poised, the January window promises to play a decisive role.

Hearts are acting early and confidently

Celtic are preparing targeted, strategic additions

Rangers are reshuffling and regrouping

Across Scotland, recruitment teams are already deep into negotiations. Supporters now wait eagerly for the deals, surprises and drama that always accompany the winter market.

One thing is certain — the next few weeks will be anything but quiet.