Celtic are finally closing in on the signing of Augsburg talent Arne Engels as their pursuit of a Matt O’Riley replacement nears a conclusion.
The latter left for Brighton & Hove Albion last week in a record deal worth £30 million inclusive of add-ons, leaving Brendan Rodgers to search for a suitable alternative.
In turn, the Irishman clarified he wants two midfielders in the building before the deadline. Engels cropped up as one of their top targets, and after a series of bids, their offer for the Belgium Under-21 international stood at £10 million as of yesterday.
Versatile by nature, the 20-year-old can play in central midfield, an advanced role or be as a right-back, which is likely to appeal to Rodgers in his search for qualify reinforcements.
With less than two days of the window remaining, there could finally be white smoke starting to emerge from Celtic Park, according to Anthony Joseph.
Celtic agree deal to sign Arne Engels
Taking to social media platform X, Joseph has confirmed that Celtic have agreed a landmark deal for Engels said to be worth in the region of £11 million.
He stated: “UPDATE: Celtic have agreed a deal worth £11m for Augsburg midfielder Arne Engels.”
Presumably, the next step will now be for Engels to travel for his medical and any remaining checks needed to force a deal through.
Intriguingly, reports suggest he has already agreed personal terms with Celtic ahead of the switch. Augsburg were informed of that fact, so it remains to be seen how far down the road the Bhoys are to sourcing O’Riley’s heir.
Hopefully, that will all come swiftly, with Deadline Day nearly upon us. Engels to Celtic is moving closer and it may not be too long before final confirmation enters the public domain.
Making a statement signing would be the ideal way for the club to end the window amid the challenge of juggling domestic endeavours and their involvement in the Champions League.
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