LAFC targets Celtic’s rising star Odin Thiago Holm to boost their 2025 midfield | OneFootball

Los Angeles FC is ready for an attacking giant transfer ahead of its 2025 rebuild and is reportedly chasing Norwegian midfielder Odin Thiago Holm, per GIVEMESPORT. At only 21 years old, his career started to reach mainstream attention while under contract with Valerenga, and now the talented youngster heads to the California club on loan from Celtic FC.

The possible signing for LAFC shows their desire to continue being competitive after the loss of such key players as Eduard Atuesta and Lewis O'Brien. Holm is not just a stopgap; he may be a tactical shift for a team still trying to find its footing in Major League Soccer, working out an on-field identity.

Young prospect ready for bigger challenge

Turning 22 on January 18, Holm is considered one of Norway's most brilliant talents in soccer. At Valerenga, the midfielder was consistent with 76 appearances before moving to Celtic in 2023. Although he has only seen a total of 24 minutes in three league games this season, his potential remains undeniably great, which has cemented his reputation as a promising figure in Norwegian soccer.

At Celtic, he's been member of a dominant squad that has led the Scottish table by 14 points over Rangers. But he faced stiff competition for playing time. Now with LAFC, he steps into an environment that will give him more chances to shine, specifically in a midfield that's seeing major changes.

LAFC in transition

The loan deal for Holm comes at a time when LAFC is trying to lock things down after a rollercoaster 2024 season. The club topped the Western Conference, lost to Seattle Sounders in the quarterfinals, and thus saw its playoff run cut. The team did win the US Open Cup and made it to the final of the Leagues Cup, proving that its core is in great shape but also very well open to changes.

Without Atuesta and O'Brien, there are obvious holes in LAFC's midfield. It allows for reinforcement. Holm, meanwhile, provides a medium- to long-term investment, one who should grow into the potential of a key cog within the tactic. He might offer a boost with his passing in areas of the field that would put an already-potent LAFC attack over the top.

One of Holm's strong suits is that he distributes the ball very well. He can also be a versatile player, being good in both defensive and offensive roles, which gives the coaching staff more freedom to change the dynamics of the midfield.

A unique chance for MLS to develop him

MLS gives Holm a different kind of platform, whereby the competition for minutes will not be cutthroat as it probably would have been in most European leagues. Preseason will start in a few weeks, with the regular season beginning in February, so he will have ample time to settle in and make his mark.

The move will also mean a new challenge for the young Norwegian, who is likely to experience a different style of football based on physicality and speed. This could also play a big role in his development, not only as a player but perhaps also as a future leader on the pitch.

Holm's arrival signals ambitions not only for LAFC but also for a player looking to elevate his career. This could be a mutually transformative partnership if the loan does come off, bringing fresh energy into the club's midfield and providing the stage on which Holm needs to thrive.