HE’S BACK! My heart was always set on Celtic, says striker Idah as champions confirm deal worth up to £9.5million

Adam Idah insists he always had his sights set on a move to Celtic after finally completing his permanent move from Norwich City to Celtic in a deal worth £9.5million.

The Irish club’s striker has signed a five-year contract with the Scottish champions, following an impressive loan spell in the second half of last season.

His arrival follows news that Southampton have all but pulled out of the race to sign midfielder Matt O’Riley, potentially paving the way for a move to Atalanta.

Idah scored nine goals in 19 games last season, including a late winner against Rangers in the Scottish Cup final to secure Celtic a domestic double.

Despite prolonged attempts by Celtic and Norwich to reach a deal, the 23-year-old last night stated that his heart has always been with Glasgow.

“I think everyone knew where I wanted to be,” Idah said. “It’s great for me and I’m happy to be back.

The Irish striker gets back to familiar with the dressing rooms after his return

Adam Idah is looking forward to wearing the number 9 shirt now that he is a permanent signing

‘It was amazing to score all those goals and be with the lads and see those amazing fans week in, week out, it was unbelievable.

‘I’ve never experienced anything like this before and I’m so glad to be back.

‘I always wanted to play for Celtic and last season was obviously amazing, to come here now and be fully part of the team and this club is amazing for me.

‘Everyone back home, my family and friends, they all wanted me to come back to Celtic. Me too. It’s really great and I’m just really happy to be here.’

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers believes it is a statement of intent from the club to pay a significant fee and tie Idah down to a long-term contract.

“We are delighted to welcome Adam back to Celtic on a permanent basis and are very pleased that he has signed a new five-year contract with the club,” said Rodgers.

‘The club have done brilliantly to secure this long-term deal, investing in a player of real quality who will be crucial to us in the years ahead.

Celtic fans will be hoping to see the form Idah showed when he scored the winning goal in the Scottish Cup final

The Irishman became a favourite among Celtic fans after they were initially unsure about him

Southampton have pulled out of the race for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley

‘He has given us so much already, he played fantastically for us when he was on loan and he has really delivered something for the club and our fans this past season.

‘Adam has fantastic qualities and is a dynamic, hungry and dedicated player who can really make a difference.

‘More importantly, Adam feels at home at Celtic. He has a love and passion for the club and I know he will do everything he can to bring success to our fans once again.’

Meanwhile, Southampton have pulled out of the race to sign O’Riley.

In preparation for their return to the Premier League, the St Mary’s club are said to have made a bid for the Denmark international earlier this summer.

While they could return to the negotiating table with an improved offer after their season opener against Newcastle on Saturday, manager Russell Martin is adamant the 23-year-old is not currently on their radar.

Asked whether the player, who is believed to be the subject of a previous £14million bid from the club, is back in the running, former defender Martin replied: ‘We are not in the race at the moment.’

That leaves Atalanta as the clear favourites to sign the Parkhead star, with reports in Italy on Wednesday night claiming the Europa League winners had tabled a renewed bid of £21.5m.

Even with the expected £1.7m add-ons, the package is still less than the £25m Celtic are worth for a player on a contract until 2027.

Atalanta, who are playing in the Champions League this season, are unlikely to take no for an answer, having recently struck a deal to sell Dutch international Teun Koopmeiners to Juventus.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s team played against Real Madrid last night in the UEFA Super Cup.

Leicester and Brighton could still be in the race for O’Riley, who joined Celtic from MK Dons in 2022 for £1.5million.