DEADLINE NEWS: GIAKO SNAG, ABILDGAARD’S EMOTIONAL FAREWELL, WELSH STAYS

GIORGOS GIAKOUMAKIS’ move from Celtic stalled before the midnight deadline – but the Greek striker is still on his way OUT of Parkhead.

The 28-year-old frontman delayed his anticipated switch to MLS outfit Atlanta United with the champions already agreeing a £4.2million offer.

However, late-night reports indicated J-League club Urawa Red Diamonds were making an eleventh-hour bid for the powerhouse hitman who knocked back an enhanced contract from the Hoops before the turn of the year.

Giakoumakis is expected to make up his mind later today, but he will not be returning to Parkhead.

American clubs have until May to conclude transfer deals while Japanese teams have until the end of this month to ratify signings.

NOW YOU SEE ME…Oliver Abildgaard in one of his rare appearances for Celtic.

As expected, Oliver Abildgaard has had his loan contract from Rubin Kazan scrapped early and he has joined Serie A outfit Hellas Verona until the end of the season.

The towering Danish midfielder has not figured since the return of domestic football after the World Cup Finals last month and has made only nine appearances in all competitions for the Hoops.

Abildgaard took to Instagram to send an emotional farewell as he said: “It all comes to an end, before it even started.

“Despite my short period of time in the club, I have witnessed the truly special atmosphere at Paradise, the incredible support from our fans and the beautiful values the club is based on.

“I want to express my gratitude to Celtic for, amongst other things, getting me back on track physically and fully fit to start my next adventure.

“Thanks for all the beautiful memories you have given me. That I will carry with me forever. I wish all the best of luck to everyone connected to the club.”

Central defender Stephen Welsh was linked with Dundee United and English Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, but the deadline came and went with the former Scotland Under-21 skipper still part of the Hoops first team squad.