Giakoumakis Seals PAOK Loan From Cruz Azul With €2m Fee And Purchase Option

PAOK have agreed a deal to sign Greek striker Giorgos Giakoumakis on loan from Cruz Azul for €2 million, with an option to buy included.

WHAT HAPPENED?

PAOK reached an agreement with Cruz Azul to take Giakoumakis on a season-long loan for a €2 million fee, and the move includes an option to buy at the end of the spell. Reports confirm that the deal was finalised on Monday, aligning with recent updates that talks had reached an advanced stage last week. The transfer brings the Greece international back to the Super League after his stints with Celtic, Atlanta United and Cruz Azul in Mexico.

WHY PAOK WANT HIM

PAOK are strengthening their forward line as they target another title push and European progress. Giakoumakis built a reputation as a prolific finisher, scoring regularly for Celtic and earning MLS Best XI honours at Atlanta United before moving to Cruz Azul in June 2024. Reports in Greece framed him as a ready-made spearhead for PAOK’s attack, adding experience and penalty-box presence to complement their existing options.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Giakoumakis’ arrival follows a summer of targeted additions in Thessaloniki, including former team-mate Greg Taylor, aiming to sustain PAOK’s domestic momentum and group-stage ambitions in Europe. His proven record—double figures with Celtic and a stand-out 2023 MLS season culminating in Best XI selection—suggests immediate impact potential. Giakoumakis scored nine goals and provided seven assists in 36 matches for Cruz Azul, further highlighting his capability.

The option to buy gives PAOK flexibility if his form translates quickly back in Greece.

WHAT NEXT?

Giakoumakis will aim for a swift debut as PAOK resume their Super League campaign and European qualifiers later this month. Registration and fitness permitting, he could feature immediately to build rhythm ahead of crucial early fixtures that shape both league positioning and continental progress.

PAOK’s staff will look to integrate him fast, leveraging his movement and finishing to decide tight matches.

FORM AND STANDINGS CHECK

Cruz Azul signed Giakoumakis in June 2024 after his 24 goals and seven assists in 43 matches for Atlanta United across all competitions. His time in Mexico was brief, paving the way for the loan. Cruz Azul currently occupies 6th place in Liga MX, and will likely face immediate pressure as they seek to improve their standing.

PAOK begin the new Super League Greece season as title contenders after last year’s strong campaign, while their early European schedule will test depth up front. Accurate league standings and upcoming fixtures will be confirmed once the new season’s first round is completed.