Samaras turns on to Palermo move

Georgios Samaras has performed a u-turn over the prospect of leaving Celtic for Palermo.

Greece striker Samaras, who has two years remaining on his Parkhead contract, insisted earlier this month he had no interest in quitting the Hoops for the Italian club.

But he appears to have had a change of heart, saying: “I’m delighted that Palermo are interested in me.

“Of course I would be happy to play for such a club. I saw that they just missed out on qualifying for the Champions League this season. That’s a pity, but, who knows, maybe next year it will happen.”

Samaras, 25, revealed he will wait until after the World Cup to make a decision about his future.

He added: “I would be very sorry to leave Celtic. I’ve enjoyed my time with the club so much and I feel valued and appreciated there. But these things happen in football.

“If I leave Scotland, it would not be a drama because Italy is a beautiful country.

“I haven’t heard from my agent for several days so I do not know if there have already been contact between Celtic and Palermo. My lawyer told me of Palermo’s interest, that’s all I know.

“But, at this moment, I’m not thinking about anything but the World Cup. I am 100% focused on the target of helping Greece in South Africa.”

Samaras has flattered to deceive at Celtic since making a six-month loan move from Manchester City permanent two years ago.

But he appears to have a fan in Palermo sporting director Walter Sabatini, who recently praised the forward’s “qualities”.