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Celtic transfer update: Callum McGregor joins Ange Postecoglou on the pitch with two deals underway.
Celtic’s transfer activity continues to dominate discussion as preparations for the new season gather pace, with speculation surrounding several key first-team players and potential new arrivals.
While the Scottish champions have only completed the signing of striker Camilo Duran so far this summer, developments behind the scenes suggest movement could soon increase, with both incoming and outgoing deals continuing to gather momentum.
Attention has centred on captain Callum McGregor, whose future has become the subject of fresh speculation, while Celtic are also exploring defensive reinforcements and monitoring the growing interest in midfielder Arne Engels.
Quiet Transfer Window So Far
Compared to previous summers, Celtic have experienced a relatively slow transfer window.
The club’s only completed addition to date has been Colombian striker Camilo Duran, who arrived to strengthen Martin O’Neill’s attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
Supporters have continued waiting for further signings as the squad prepares for another domestic title challenge and European competition.
Although activity has been limited so far, reports suggest Celtic remain actively involved in the market, with several potential deals developing behind the scenes.
As the transfer deadline gradually approaches, both arrivals and departures could accelerate significantly.
Callum McGregor Linked With Saudi Arabia
One of the biggest talking points surrounding Celtic this summer has been the future of captain Callum McGregor.
The experienced midfielder has recently found himself linked with a possible move to the Saudi Pro League following developments involving former Celtic managers Brendan Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou.
Speculation increased after McGregor changed his player representation, joining Unique Sports Group.
The agency also represents Brendan Rodgers, who now manages Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia.
That connection immediately fuelled suggestions that the Celtic captain could eventually follow his former manager to the Middle East.
Although those particular rumours have since cooled, fresh speculation has emerged involving another familiar face.
Ange Postecoglou Connection Emerges
Following Ange Postecoglou’s appointment as manager of Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr, reports have suggested the Australian could attempt to reunite with McGregor.
The midfielder played a hugely important role during Postecoglou’s successful spell at Celtic and was one of the manager’s most trusted leaders on and off the pitch.
Their strong working relationship naturally makes any reported interest particularly believable.
While no formal move has yet materialised, the possibility of a reunion continues attracting attention among supporters.
The speculation has also prompted former Celtic players and pundits to offer their opinions regarding McGregor’s future.
Frank McAvennie Shares His View
Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie believes there could be genuine substance behind the ongoing speculation.
Speaking on his podcast, McAvennie admitted he has developed a personal feeling that McGregor’s future may eventually lie away from Parkhead.
He pointed to subtle changes surrounding the midfielder during the summer, including his absence from the club’s main kit launch campaign after previously playing a central promotional role.
Although McAvennie stressed these were only personal observations rather than confirmed information, he acknowledged they had made him wonder whether significant developments could be approaching.
Despite those thoughts, he also expressed hope that McGregor remains at Celtic.
Financial Appeal Difficult to Ignore
McAvennie also discussed the financial attraction of a move to Saudi Arabia.
He suggested that players approaching the latter stages of their careers naturally consider opportunities that provide exceptional financial rewards.
According to the former striker, McGregor could potentially earn more during a short spell in Saudi Arabia than throughout the rest of his playing career combined.
With both Brendan Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou now working in the Saudi Pro League, the experienced midfielder would also have familiar managers already established in the country.
Even so, no agreement has been reported, and McGregor remains a Celtic player.
Celtic Continue Searching for Left-Back
While speculation continues regarding departures, Celtic also remain focused on strengthening their squad.
One area receiving particular attention is left-back.
The Scottish champions had hoped to complete the permanent signing of Marcelo Saracchi following his previous involvement with the club.
However, negotiations to bring the Uruguayan back from Boca Juniors have yet to produce a successful outcome.
As a result, Celtic are actively assessing alternative options before the transfer window closes.
The club appear determined to secure additional quality in that position before the new season begins.
Mitchel Bakker Emerges as Alternative
Among the players now linked with Celtic is Atalanta defender Mitchel Bakker.
The Dutch left-sided player has reportedly become a realistic option should negotiations involving Saracchi fail to progress.
Reports from Italy suggest a move to Glasgow is becoming an increasingly attractive possibility for the defender.
Atalanta are believed to be working toward finding a solution regarding Bakker’s future as the player approaches the final year of his current contract.
Allowing him to remain without extending his deal could risk losing him for nothing in the future.
Consequently, the Italian club may be prepared to consider offers during the current transfer window.
Celtic Viewed as Best Destination
According to reports, Bakker’s representatives view Celtic as the strongest destination currently available for the player.
The opportunity to compete regularly, challenge for trophies, and feature in European competition makes Parkhead an appealing option.
From Celtic’s perspective, Bakker offers versatility and experience that could strengthen the squad immediately.
Although no transfer has yet been finalised, discussions surrounding the Dutch defender continue gathering momentum.
Should negotiations progress successfully, he could become one of the club’s most significant defensive additions this summer.
Arne Engels Continues Attracting Interest

Arne Engels in action(Image: SNS Group)
While Celtic explore new signings, interest in midfielder Arne Engels continues increasing across Europe.
The talented Belgian has developed into one of the club’s most valuable assets following his impressive performances.
His displays have attracted attention from several clubs competing in Europe’s major leagues.
Earlier this year, Celtic rejected a reported £25 million offer from Nottingham Forest before the transfer deadline.
Despite refusing to sell at that stage, speculation surrounding Engels has not disappeared.
If anything, interest has intensified further during the current transfer window.
Roma Monitoring the Situation
Italian giants Roma are now among the clubs believed to be closely monitoring Engels.
Reports suggest the Serie A side have continued following his progress over recent weeks while evaluating potential midfield reinforcements.
The Belgian reportedly remains firmly on Roma’s shortlist as they assess options capable of strengthening their squad.
Should the Italian club decide to pursue a formal transfer, they understand Celtic are unlikely to negotiate below a valuation of around £25 million.
That significant asking price reflects both the midfielder’s quality and his long-term potential.
Celtic Face Important Transfer Decisions
Manager Martin O’Neill has already acknowledged that movement involving Engels cannot be completely ruled out before the transfer window closes.
Although Celtic have no desire to lose one of their brightest young talents, substantial offers may eventually force the club into difficult discussions.
With continued interest from England and Italy, Engels’ future remains one of the biggest stories surrounding Parkhead this summer.
As preparations for the new season continue, Celtic supporters remain eager to see further transfer activity.
Whether that involves strengthening the squad with players such as Mitchel Bakker or resisting interest in stars like Callum McGregor and Arne Engels, the coming weeks promise to play a major role in shaping the club’s ambitions for the campaign ahead.
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