Why Haissem Hassan’s fallout could pave the way for Celtic’s £9m move

Haissem Hassan’s fallout explained as Celtic edge closer to £9m move

Haissem Hassan appears to be closing in on a move to Celtic after Real Oviedo confirmed to CeltsAreHere that the latest reports surrounding the proposed transfer are accurate.

The deal is understood to be worth an initial £6 million, with performance-related add-ons potentially taking the total package to around £9 million. Hassan has also reportedly agreed personal terms on a four-year contract as Celtic continue to push towards completing the transfer.

However, as the move gathers momentum, details of a previous disagreement between Hassan and former Oviedo head coach Veljko Paunovic have resurfaced.

According to The Herald, the incident stemmed from the winger’s frustration at starting on the bench. After contributing to a goal following his introduction, Hassan turned towards the dugout and was reported to have shouted: “Try putting me on the bench now! Put me on the bench.”

Real Oviedo responded publicly, making it clear they viewed the player’s actions as unacceptable.

The club said: “We believe Haissem Hassan disrespected Veljko Paunovic and engaged in actions that cannot be repeated.”

Hassan accepted responsibility almost immediately and issued a public apology the following day.

“I want to apologise to my coach Veljko Paunovic and his coaching staff, as well as to my teammates, the board and the Real Oviedo fans.

“My gesture during the goal celebration was wrong, it was inappropriate, and it doesn’t represent the values of this team.

“I will continue to work as I have been so that everyone can be proud of me, and it won’t happen again.”

Despite the public criticism, Oviedo chose not to suspend or fine the winger.

Paunovic was dismissed not long after the incident, although there has been no suggestion that Hassan’s actions influenced the club’s decision to part ways with the manager.

The episode provides additional context surrounding Celtic’s prospective new signing, but Hassan’s swift acceptance of responsibility and public apology helped bring the matter to a close.

With Oviedo now confirming the reported financial framework of the transfer and the player’s four-year agreement, the move to Celtic appears to have taken another significant step towards completion.