Real Oviedo’s chief issues a warning to Celtic regarding Haissem Hassan’s transfer.

Real Oviedo sporting director David Fernandez has delivered a firm response amid growing transfer speculation linking Haissem Hassan with a move to Celtic, making it clear that any club hoping to sign the talented winger will have to meet the Spanish side’s demands.

The Egyptian international has emerged as one of the latest names connected with a switch to Parkhead during the summer transfer window. Reports have suggested Celtic have already made an approach for the exciting wide player following his impressive performances on the international stage, particularly after his standout display against Argentina during the FIFA World Cup.

Haissem Hassan of Egypt competes for the ball against Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Tagliafico of Argentina during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium on July 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Hassan’s displays have attracted widespread attention, with several clubs believed to be monitoring his progress. Celtic are among those credited with a strong interest as Martin O’Neill continues reshaping his squad ahead of the new campaign.

The Scottish champions are expected to remain active in the transfer market over the coming weeks as O’Neill begins his second permanent spell in charge of the club. Strengthening multiple areas of the squad has become a priority after a season that exposed weaknesses despite Celtic once again securing domestic success.

While the club ultimately managed to lift silverware, there was a feeling among supporters that performances failed to consistently reach the standards expected at Parkhead. In particular, questions were raised about the team’s attacking output, with many believing Celtic lacked the creativity and cutting edge needed to dominate matches as convincingly as in previous seasons.

As a result, reinforcing the forward line has become one of O’Neill’s key objectives this summer.

Hassan has therefore emerged as a logical target. The winger possesses pace, technical ability and direct attacking qualities that could provide Celtic with a different dimension in the final third. His recent World Cup performances have only increased his reputation, making him one of the more talked-about attacking players available during the current transfer window.

However, despite the growing speculation, Real Oviedo have made it clear they will not allow one of their prized assets to leave cheaply or under pressure.

Fernandez addressed the ongoing rumours shortly after taking up his position as the club’s sporting director, insisting that every significant transfer decision will remain firmly under Oviedo’s control.

Haissem Hassan of Egypt controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Australia and Egypt at Dallas Stadium on July 03, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

He explained that one of the main reasons he accepted the role was to work closely with the club’s ownership group and play an active role in football decisions. According to Fernandez, every important move involving the squad has involved his direct input, including discussions surrounding potential arrivals and departures.

The sporting director also stressed that Hassan remains a Real Oviedo player and reiterated that the Spanish club intends to adopt a firm stance whenever interest arises in members of the squad.

His comments leave little room for misunderstanding, signalling that Oviedo have no intention of allowing outside clubs to dictate negotiations.

Fernandez emphasised that the club will implement a strong policy regarding transfer business, both when recruiting new players and when dealing with offers for existing members of the squad. His remarks appear designed to send a clear message not only to Celtic but also to any other clubs considering a move for Hassan during the current window.

Those comments suggest any negotiations could prove challenging if Celtic decide to intensify their pursuit.

Meanwhile, O’Neill continues overseeing an important rebuilding project at Lennoxtown following his return to the Celtic dugout. The experienced manager is believed to be assessing several positions as he looks to refresh a squad that many supporters feel has reached the end of its current cycle.

A number of players from various European leagues have already been linked with moves to Glasgow, with fresh transfer reports emerging almost daily as recruitment plans continue to develop.

Although additions are expected across several areas, strengthening the attacking department remains one of the club’s biggest priorities.

The need for greater creativity and more consistent goal contributions has become increasingly apparent, leading Celtic to explore several options capable of improving the squad’s overall quality.

One player who has already arrived is Camilo Duran. The Colombian completed a five-year contract after Celtic agreed a deal with Qarabag that reportedly represented a record transfer fee received by an Azerbaijani club.

The highly rated attacker has already linked up with his new teammates during the club’s pre-season training camp in Portugal, where preparations for the upcoming campaign are well underway.

Supporters are understandably excited to see Duran make his first appearances in a Celtic shirt. Nevertheless, many fans believe additional signings remain essential if the club is to compete successfully both domestically and in European competition.

The right wing has been identified as one area requiring immediate attention.

Veteran James Forrest continues to offer valuable experience, while Yang Hyun-jun impressed at various stages of last season under O’Neill. Despite Yang’s encouraging performances, there remains a widespread belief that Celtic still require a specialist first-choice right winger capable of consistently producing goals and assists throughout a demanding campaign.

That reality explains why Hassan continues to feature prominently in transfer discussions.

His ability to beat defenders, stretch opposition backlines and create opportunities has reportedly made him an attractive option for Celtic’s recruitment team as they search for further attacking reinforcements.

Whether the Scottish champions ultimately succeed in bringing the Egyptian international to Glasgow remains uncertain.

What appears much clearer, however, is Real Oviedo’s determination to protect their interests throughout any negotiations.

Fernandez’s latest comments underline the club’s intention to remain in complete control of Hassan’s future. Rather than being pressured into accepting offers below their valuation, Oviedo are prepared to stand firm and ensure any potential transfer happens only on terms they consider acceptable.

For Celtic, that means any attempt to secure Hassan’s signature could require significant negotiations and a financial package capable of satisfying the Spanish club’s expectations.

With the transfer window still open and Celtic expected to pursue additional attacking reinforcements, Hassan’s future is likely to remain one of the stories supporters will continue monitoring closely over the coming weeks as O’Neill looks to strengthen his squad ahead of another demanding season.