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McGinn says Celtic missed signing him in 2018 due to slow negotiations

Published 28 August 2026

Aston Villa captain John McGinn has revealed he was on the verge of joining Celtic in 2018, but the transfer collapsed because the Scottish club "dragged their heels," allowing Aston Villa to secure his signature instead. The Scotland international, who has since captained Villa to Europa League glory and Champions League qualification, discussed the failed move in a recent podcast appearance. McGinn, a lifelong Celtic supporter and grandson of former Celtic chairman Jack McGinn, explained that he was eager to make the switch from Hibernian to Parkhead.

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