Celtic have completed the permanent signing of midfielder Gvidas Gineitis from Torino, the Scottish club confirmed on Friday. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed, though sources indicate Torino found the offer acceptable for a player who wasn’t a consistent starter. Gineitis has signed a multi-year contract with the Glasgow side, bolstering their options in central midfield.
The move comes as a slight surprise given comments made just a week prior by the player’s agent, Dmitry Vinokurov, who stated that Torino highly valued Gineitis and considered him an important part of their project. However, Vinokurov also acknowledged the player’s ambition and the existence of interest from other clubs. This suggests Gineitis sought a move to a club where he would see more regular first-team football.
Gineitis, 20, joined Torino in January 2023 from Lithuanian side Žalgiris Vilnius. He has made 24 appearances for the Italian club across all competitions, though many of those were as a substitute. The Lithuanian international has also represented his country at youth levels, earning three senior caps since his debut in 2022. He is a technically gifted player known for his passing range and ability to dictate play from midfield.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been actively reshaping his midfield this summer following the departure of several players. The addition of Gineitis provides competition for places alongside established stars like Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley. He offers a different profile to the existing midfielders, potentially adding more control and composure in possession.
The transfer represents a significant opportunity for Gineitis to develop his game in a competitive league and showcase his talent on a larger stage. For Celtic, it strengthens their squad depth and provides Rodgers with another tactical option as they aim to retain their Scottish Premiership title and compete in European competitions. The club will be hoping he can quickly adapt to the demands of Scottish football and become a key player in the years to come.
