Ermin Mahmić is reportedly on the verge of joining Celtic.

Celtic supporters have been given a fresh indication of how many new players could arrive at Parkhead before the summer transfer window closes, with journalist David Friel suggesting that at least three more additions are highly likely.

Friel, who has established a strong reputation for breaking Celtic-related stories and providing reliable information about the club, believes Celtic are certain to strengthen three specific positions before the September deadline.

However, the journalist has also suggested that there could be a fourth signing if the Hoops manage to move several players out of the squad.

The update will be encouraging for Celtic supporters, particularly with manager Martin O’Neill continuing to make it clear that further additions are required as the club prepares for a demanding season domestically and in Europe.

Three Celtic Signings Expected

According to Friel, Celtic are expected to recruit a goalkeeper, a left-back and a central midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Speaking on The Scottish SunSport YouTube channel, the journalist explained that he expects those three positions to be addressed, while refusing to rule out another arrival in a different area.

Friel said: “I think they’ll definitely bring a goalkeeper, left back and central midfielder and I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s one more in a certain area but I think there’ll be a couple go as well.”

His comments suggest that Celtic’s recruitment plans are not simply about bringing new players into the squad. There could also be significant movement in the opposite direction before the deadline.

Friel believes several departures are possible, including the potential exits of Reo Hatate and Johnny Kenny.

Hatate and Kenny Could Leave

The future of Hatate has been the subject of increasing speculation, and Friel believes the midfielder could eventually leave Celtic.

The Japanese international has been an important player for the club, but there has been considerable transfer interest in him, potentially opening the door for a significant move before the window shuts.

Friel also highlighted Johnny Kenny as another player who could depart.

The young forward was once again among the substitutes during Celtic’s recent match, and there is reportedly plenty of interest in his services.

If both players leave, Celtic could have additional space and financial flexibility to bring in replacements or further strengthen other areas of the squad.

Friel believes there could be three departures in total, meaning the Hoops could potentially see substantial turnover before the deadline.

Champions League Could Influence Recruitment

The timing of Celtic’s remaining transfer activity could be closely linked to their Champions League qualification.

The Hoops currently hold a commanding 3-0 aggregate advantage over LASK ahead of the second leg of their play-off tie on Tuesday.

Should Celtic successfully complete the job and secure their place in the Champions League league phase, the financial benefits and increased demands of European football could encourage the club to pursue even more ambitious targets.

That could be particularly important when it comes to the quality of the players O’Neill wants to add.

A goalkeeper is expected to be one of the priorities, with Viljami Sinisalo requiring additional competition between the posts.

Celtic are also believed to be considering a new left-back, with Landon Emenalo reportedly among the players being considered.

However, his potential move may depend on his recovery from a knock suffered during training at Chelsea.

Midfield Recruitment Remains Important

Central midfield is another position that Celtic are expected to strengthen.

The departure of Arne Engels could create a significant gap, making recruitment in that area particularly important.

Several midfielders have been linked with a move to Parkhead in recent weeks, including Niko Sigur and Gvidas Gineitis.

Both players have reportedly attracted serious interest from Celtic, with the club seemingly keen to add another midfielder capable of providing quality and depth.

The eventual arrival could depend on what happens with existing members of the squad, particularly if Hatate moves on.

With Celtic competing on several fronts, having sufficient midfield options will be essential for O’Neill.

What Could the Fourth Signing Be?

Perhaps the most interesting part of Friel’s prediction concerns the possibility of a fourth addition.

The journalist did not identify a specific position, but Celtic have previously been linked with strengthening on the left wing.

Adrian Blake has been mentioned as a potential target, meaning another attacking player could potentially arrive if the club decides that further depth is required in that area.

However, some supporters could argue that another central midfielder would be the more sensible option.

Adding another player in that position could allow Celtic to bring in both Gineitis and Sigur, while Ermin Mahmić is also reportedly under consideration.

That would give O’Neill greater flexibility in midfield and provide additional competition for places during a season that could involve a significant number of matches.

Excitement Growing Among Celtic Fans

Friel’s prediction will undoubtedly increase excitement among Celtic supporters, particularly because it broadly matches the direction O’Neill has been hinting at during recent weeks.

The expectation is that Celtic will become increasingly active once their Champions League play-off campaign is settled.

If the Hoops secure their place in the league phase, the club could have greater financial resources available and an even stronger incentive to strengthen the squad.

For now, a goalkeeper, left-back and central midfielder appear to be the most likely additions.

A fourth signing could then depend on departures and the opportunities that emerge during the final stages of the window.

With Hatate and Kenny among those potentially leaving, Celtic could experience significant movement in both directions.

Supporters will therefore be watching the days ahead closely, with O’Neill seemingly preparing for at least three more additions and potentially a fourth before the September deadline.

If Celtic complete the expected deals and add another quality player, they could enter the new campaign with a deeper and more balanced squad capable of handling the demands of domestic football and a potential Champions League campaign.