Celtic agree loan deal for Chelsea striker as Nathan Patterson heads to Italy
Celtic have made a late move for one of Chelsea’s highly-rated young forwards, while Scotland international Nathan Patterson is closing in on a permanent switch to Italy, according to the latest transfer update provided by Fabrizio Romano.
It has been reported by the transfer narrative expert that Celtic have agreed a season-long loan deal to sign centre-forward Shim Mheuka, with the teenager already completing his medical in London earlier today. The move represents an opportunity for the 18-year-old to gain regular first-team experience away from Stamford Bridge.
Mheuka is regarded as one of Chelsea’s brightest attacking prospects and recently committed his long-term future to the London club by signing a new contract running until 2033. He joined Chelsea from Brighton’s academy in 2022 and has since progressed through the club’s youth system, earning senior opportunities along the way.
Celtic have agreed a loan deal with Premier League side Chelsea for young striker Shim Mheukaplaceholder image
Celtic have agreed a loan deal with Premier League side Chelsea for young striker Shim Mheuka | Getty Images
The striker made his first-team debut in December 2024 and has since made nine senior appearances so far, including two English Premier League outings. Last season, he took another step forward in his development after being named the Premier League 2 ‘Player of the Season.’
Mheuka’s imminent arrival in Glasgow provides Celtic manager Martin O’Neill with another attacking option and gives the player a chance to play competitive senior football on a consistent basis. The loan deal is not understood to include an option for the Scottish champions to buy the player permanently, meaning Chelsea will retain control of his long-term future.
Romano posted on X: “Celtic have agreed loan deal to sign Shim Mheuka from Chelsea, medical now completed. Season long loan for the striker joining from #CFC.”
The deal also highlights Chelsea’s continued strategy of developing young players through temporary moves. Rather than keeping Mheuka on the fringes of the first team, the club will now assess his progress in a demanding environment where he should have greater opportunities to feature regularly.
Scotland international to embark on fresh challenge in Italy
Meanwhile, a Scotland international is preparing for a new chapter abroad.
Romano has confirmed that Nathan Patterson is set to leave Everton for Torino on a permanent transfer. The right-back has agreed a contract with the Serie A club until June 2029, with Everton securing a significant sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Patterson has already travelled to Italy and is undergoing the necessary medical checks before the formalities can be completed. Various reports indicate that the deal is worth a relatively modest fee, while Everton will retain around 30 per cent of any future sale value.
Romano tweeted: “Nathan Patterson, set to join Torino on permanent deal from Everton as deal has been agreed. Contract until June 2029. #EFC secured a big sell-on clause.”
The move brings an end to Patterson’s difficult spell on Merseyside. He joined Everton from Rangers in January 2022 but struggled to establish himself as the club’s first-choice right-back, with injuries and limited game time restricting his progress.
A move to Torino could therefore represent a crucial opportunity for the 24-year-old. Consistent Serie A football would give Patterson the chance to rebuild his confidence and potentially strengthen his position within the Scotland setup under new head coach Sebastien Pocognoli.
*The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly