Jocelin Ta Bi’s representative has spoken openly about the failed move to Celtic and claimed the winger was subjected to online abuse from sections of the club’s support after the transfer collapsed.
Agent Stav Hakmon also questioned Celtic’s handling of the negotiations, suggesting there was no clear explanation for why the Scottish champions delayed completing the deal. Ta Bi eventually joined Sunderland in a £3 million switch, despite Celtic having previously agreed a fee with Israeli side Maccabi Netanya. The sticking point appeared to be concerns over the player’s ankle.
Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has since confirmed the 20 year old does not require surgery and is expected to be available within weeks. Speaking to media in Israel, Hakmon detailed how the move to Glasgow broke down after progress had initially been made.
He explained that several offers had been rejected, including interest from Champions League clubs and five MLS teams, as Ta Bi waited for what he believed was the right opportunity. After medical checks in Israel, Celtic requested further examinations in London with a specialist.
Hakmon said the process raised doubts, insisting the deal was effectively agreed and that no abnormal results were communicated. He claimed Celtic indicated discussions would follow on whether the player might need a short rest period at the start of the season.
During that time, Sunderland re-entered the picture. Hakmon revealed he initially turned down an approach from the Championship club out of principle, but later received a call from Sunderland’s owner questioning why the deal was not progressing. According to the agent, Celtic no longer appeared to be driving the transfer forward.
He added that he personally covered accommodation costs before travelling north, then formally informed Celtic and Maccabi Netanya that Ta Bi would not be joining due to the delays.
Hakmon also alleged the player received abusive messages from some Celtic supporters, including political accusations, following news that the transfer had fallen through.
Despite Celtic attempting to reopen contact, the agent said he did not respond until the Sunderland move was finalised. While stopping short of making direct accusations, Hakmon suggested the situation left him uneasy and raised questions about whether the player’s background played a role.
In contrast, he praised Sunderland’s approach, stating the club were satisfied with Ta Bi’s medical results and transparent throughout the process. A work permit issue briefly delayed the signing, but with support from the Ivory Coast national setup, approval was granted.
Hakmon highlighted the rarity of such approval, noting Ta Bi became one of only a handful of players to pass the Premier League’s exceptions panel without a senior international appearance, comparing his case to Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli.