Derek McInnes eyes surprise transfer move for Celtic attacking flop

Originally posted on The Celtic Star | Last updated Jun 3, 2025 5:26 PM ET

New Hearts manager Derek McInnes is reportedly interested in signing former Celtic and Man City talent Daniel Arzani. The Australian attacker arrived at Celtic on a two-year loan deal after signing for Pep Guardiola’s side. However, the move to Europe did not pan out well with injuries curtailing his progress. However, the 26-year-old has revived his faltering career back in Australia with Melbourne Victory and could make a return to Scottish football.

A report from ESPN’s Mark Donaldson claims that the player is weighing up an offer to join Hearts.

Brighton chief Tony Bloom has invested in Hearts, providing access to his Jamestown Analytics. This connection may have taken them to the out-of-contract Arzani, who has made 64 appearances, scoring 7 goals and assisting 14 times for Victory.

Arzani made his Celtic debut in a resounding win for Celtic against Dundee at Dens Park in 2018. Brendan Rodgers had waited until the end of October to give the player his bow, despite having impressed at the World Cup with Australia.

Arzani’s second half debut came on Halloween after weeks of speculation about whether the manager had actually wanted to sign him or not. It would be a season ending injury for Arzani, which ruled him out for over 12 months. Arzani’s progress faltered with that injury at Dens and he has failed to recover from it, having to settle for youth team appearances and one Scottish Cup appearance.

Loan moves followed from City to Utrecht, AGF and Lommel followed before a permanent switch to MacArthur FC before a 2023 return to Melbourne Victory. The player has previously spoken about his desire to return to European football.

This article first appeared on The Celtic Star and was syndicated with permission.

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