Martin O’Neill, Celtic’s manager, has acknowledged that the club anticipates several departures this summer, with key players attracting considerable interest from other teams. Among those potentially leaving is Daizen Maeda, who is reportedly eyeing a move to the Premier League. Additionally, a significant bid of £25 million from Nottingham Forest for Arne Engels suggests that more exits could be on the horizon.
Alongside Maeda and Engels, Reo Hatate is seeking a new challenge away from Celtic, while Benjamin Nygren, fresh off a 21-goal season, is also linked with a possible departure. These developments signal a period of transition as Celtic aim to balance squad changes with ongoing ambitions.
McGregor’s Future and Transfer Market Movements
At the center of Celtic’s summer discussions is 33-year-old captain Callum McGregor. Following a recent switch in representation, McGregor has drawn interest from Saudi clubs, prompting O’Neill to prepare for talks regarding his future. While the manager is keen to retain his captain, he admits that a substantial offer could prove difficult to resist.
To strengthen their coaching staff, Celtic have also appointed Ross Grant as a specialist set-piece coach, signaling an intent to refine critical aspects of their game as they navigate the transfer window.
On the recruitment front, Celtic are poised to increase their bid for winger Haissem Hassan to between €7 million and €8 million. However, Liverpool have initiated talks, complicating the situation. Real Oviedo, Hassan’s current club, have indicated a €12 million release clause in his contract, which runs until 2027. Hassan’s performances during the World Cup for Egypt have undoubtedly raised his profile, attracting this heightened attention.
Meanwhile, across Europe, Feyenoord is reportedly advancing ahead of Celtic and Wolfsburg in negotiations for Hertha Berlin goalkeeper Tjark Ernst. The 23-year-old, who is under contract until 2027, is said to have a €5 million release clause, with discussions progressing steadily.
In a notable development regarding a former loanee, Boca Juniors have confirmed that Marcelo Saracchi is available for transfer and is currently training separately from the first team. This situation provides Celtic with leverage to re-sign the left-back, who impressed during his loan spell. O’Neill has indicated that talks with Saracchi’s agent are ongoing, expressing a desire to bring the player back to Glasgow.
These combined movements underscore a dynamic summer for Celtic as they face the dual task of managing player exits while pursuing reinforcements to strengthen the squad ahead of the coming season.