David Friel Reveals Celtic’s Recruitment Plans Involving Hassan and Four Others

Celtic’s search for new signings remains active as the summer transfer window enters a decisive period, with the club still prioritising reinforcements in several key areas.

Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan has been strongly linked with a move to Parkhead for a number of weeks, while Frosinone attacker Farès Ghedjemis is also understood to be under consideration as Martin O’Neill looks to strengthen his options out wide.

The need for another natural winger was highlighted during Monday’s match against Dundee, where Camilo Duran was used in an unfamiliar role. Yang Hyun-jun and Sebastiaan Tounekti also failed to make a convincing case for regular inclusion, underlining the club’s desire to add more quality in wide positions.

Journalist David Friel, formerly of the Celtic View, has been among the most reliable sources of transfer information involving the Scottish champions throughout the summer. He was the first to reveal Celtic’s interest in Camilo Duran in June, weeks before the Colombian completed his move from Qarabag.

With the season already underway, there is increasing pressure to strengthen the squad quickly. Celtic have seen a significant number of departures this summer, with around 15 players leaving and only two arrivals confirmed so far. Although many of those exits involved fringe players, the overall depth of the squad has been reduced.

Reports from Spain suggest that negotiations for Hassan have advanced considerably. According to Friel, Celtic have made progress in discussions with Oviedo and are prepared to invest heavily in the 24-year-old winger.

The proposed transfer is believed to involve an initial payment of around £6 million, with bonuses potentially taking the total package to £9 million. Hassan has attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and from French side Marseille, but Celtic are currently viewed as favourites to complete the deal, with Oviedo willing to negotiate.

The Hoops are also continuing their search for a left-back and goalkeeper, while discussions have taken place regarding Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur.

Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis has emerged as a possible replacement for Arne Engels, with West Ham United continuing to monitor the Belgian midfielder’s situation.

Time is becoming a major factor in Celtic’s transfer plans. The club must submit its squad list for the Champions League play-off against LASK by August 13, although UEFA regulations allow two changes to be made up to 24 hours before the first leg on August 19.

Even if a deal for Hassan is completed soon, visa procedures, work permit requirements and medical checks mean he is unlikely to feature in Sunday’s Premiership match against Kilmarnock.

The transfer window remains open until September 3, giving Celtic more time to strengthen, but uncertainty also surrounds potential departures. Speculation over the futures of Alistair Johnston and Arne Engels continues, with any possible exits likely to depend on the outcome of the upcoming European ties against LASK.

Further clarity could emerge during today’s media duties, although it remains uncertain whether Martin O’Neill will oversee training or address reporters as preparations continue for an important period both on and off the pitch.