Celtic have made their first signing of the January window by taking Julian Araujo on loan from Bournemouth until the end of this season.
The right-sided defender, who has been capped 16 times for Mexico, was born in California and began his professional career in the MLS with LA Galaxy.
He earned a high-profile move to Barcelona three years ago but didn’t feature at the Camp Nou and spent the following season on loan at Las Palmas.
Araujo then moved to Bournemouth at the start of last season but played only 13 times for the South Coast outfit.
He’s been frustrated through a lack of opportunities so far this season, with his one and only appearance coming in a League Cup defeat to Brentford in which he was sent off.
Delighted to have been given a fresh opportunity under Wilfried Nancy, the 24-year-old said: ‘I am really happy to join Celtic. This is a top club and I can’t wait to get going and work hard with the other players to bring our fans success.
Julian Araujo has been on the sidelines at Bournemouth but could now play in the Old Firm derby on Saturday
‘I know the demands at a club like Celtic, and I am ready for these. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead and I want to play my part in bringing good times and good, winning football to our supporters.
‘I have met the boys already. We have some great players in the squad and we are all ready to tackle the second half of the season and do as much as we can for the fans.’
Araujo might make his debut against Rangers as Nancy’s side seek to put a dreadful run of form behind them.
‘We are delighted to bring Julian to Celtic,’ said Nancy. ‘He is a really talented player with a good level of experience and we think the qualities he will bring will be really beneficial to the squad.’
