BOTH SCOTTISH GIANTS WANT HIM BUT THE STAR “FEDERICO CHIESA” HAS CHOSEN ONE OF THE TWO AS HIS NEXT DESTINATION – FANS IN SHOCK

Federico Chiesa has made his decision. After weeks of mounting speculation and strong interest from both sides of the Old Firm rivalry, the Italian winger has chosen his next club a move that has stunned fans across the UK and Europe. With personal terms agreed and a medical scheduled, the deal is all but done.

The star has opted to join Celtic, rejecting a late push from Rangers in what was described as a “50-50 battle” right up until the final days. The Glasgow giants moved quickly to secure the signature of the 27-year-old, with manager Brendan Rodgers personally involved in convincing the Italian to take on a new challenge in Scottish football.

While both clubs had opened talks with Chiesa’s representatives, it was Celtic’s clear project and ambitious vision that ultimately swayed the player’s decision. Rodgers laid out a role where Chiesa would be the focal point of the team’s attacking system, with a long-term goal of competing not only for domestic trophies but also making a serious run in Europe.

According to sources close to the player, Chiesa was also impressed by the atmosphere at Celtic Park, the club’s history, and the passionate fanbase that reminded him of his days playing in Italy. After a successful but physically demanding stint in the Premier League, he was looking for a place where he could rediscover his creativity and flair  and he believes he’s found it.

PERSONAL TERMS AGREED, MEDICAL NEXT

Negotiations progressed swiftly once Chiesa gave his approval. Celtic and the player’s camp have agreed on a four-year contract worth a reported £50,000 per week making him one of the top earners in the club’s modern history.

A medical is now set for early next week in Glasgow, after which the deal will be officially announced. If all goes according to plan, Chiesa could be unveiled before Celtic’s pre-season tour begins, allowing him to integrate into Rodgers’ squad early.

His arrival would marks a significant coup for the club, as the signing of a player with Serie A, Premier League, and international pedigree is rare in Scottish football. It’s a statement and fans know it.

RANGERS MISS OUT

Rangers had been confident in their pursuit of Chiesa, even tabling a competitive offer and holding advanced talks with Liverpool. Their proposal reportedly included a key role under manager Philippe Clement and a lucrative salary package. But in the end, Chiesa’s heart was swayed by a different vision  one that included Champions League nights at Celtic Park and the chance to work under Rodgers.

The news has not gone down well among Rangers supporters, many of whom believed the club were on the verge of a major breakthrough. On social media, reactions ranged from disbelief to frustration, with some fans calling the missed opportunity a “massive setback.”

Chiesa’s impending arrival comes at a time when Celtic are building momentum both on and off the pitch. Fresh from reclaiming the Scottish Premiership title, the club is now preparing for a summer of smart reinforcements and Chiesa is the headline act.

With his ability to play on either wing, beat defenders, and score in crucial moments, the Italian is expected to slot directly into Celtic’s starting XI. Supporters are already imagining the impact he could have in European nights and the fierce Old Firm battles to come.

Though he hasn’t spoken publicly yet, sources say Chiesa is “excited, focused, and ready to get started.” He views this move as a fresh chapter  not a step down, but a step toward becoming the centerpiece of a team with real ambition.

Once the medical is complete, Celtic are expected to make the announcement with a full media unveiling. Until then, one thing is clear: this transfer has already made waves across Scotland, and Chiesa’s name will soon echo around Paradise.