Ange Postecoglou has reportedly struck a "preliminary agreement" to bring a foreign midfielder to Al-Nassr, amid ongoing speculation over Celtic captain Callum McGregor's future. The 31-year-old Scotland international has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League after switching agents to Unique Sports Group, the same agency that represents former Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers, now manager of Al-Qadsiah. However, a reunion with Rodgers appears off the table for now, as Al-Qadsiah must clear space on their foreign player list when the Saudi transfer window opens on July 22.
Postecoglou Targets Midfield Reinforcements
According to Middle Eastern outlet 365Scores, Postecoglou has identified two foreign midfield targets to replace outgoing Croatian star Marcelo Brozovic. The report claims Al-Nassr has reached a preliminary agreement with one unnamed player, who is expected to join the first team this summer. Club officials are awaiting approval from relevant authorities to finalize the deal once the window opens on July 22. Postecoglou is said to be targeting players who can implement his tactical ideas and unleash his all-out attacking style in the Pro League.
McGregor's Celtic Legacy and Postecoglou Connection
McGregor enjoyed a highly successful two-year spell under Postecoglou at Celtic, winning five trophies, including a Treble in the 2022-23 season. The Australian departed for Tottenham Hotspur in 2023, but his arrival at Al-Nassr has reignited speculation over a potential reunion. Speaking after Postecoglou's departure, McGregor praised the manager's "real focus and relentlessness." He said: "It has been great to work with the gaffer over the past two seasons and to achieve the success that we have, especially achieving yet another Treble at the weekend. In fact, to win five out of six domestic trophies is a tremendous achievement and that is testament to the real focus and relentlessness of the manager, the players and our whole backroom team who have all worked so hard."
McGregor added: "I thank all our supporters again for what they have given us this year. The scenes at Hampden and Celtic Park, when we celebrated our success together will stay with me forever. We have delivered something very special to our fans and done it, under the manager's direction by playing an exciting and attractive brand of football. As all the players do, I wish Ange great success in his next challenge."
Al-Nassr's Ambitions and McGregor's Future
Al-Nassr, who already boast stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, are looking to strengthen their midfield under Postecoglou. The Australian's preference for dynamic, attacking midfielders aligns with McGregor's profile, having thrived in a similar system at Celtic. However, no official bid has been made, and Celtic are keen to retain their captain, who has two years remaining on his contract. The Saudi transfer window opening on July 22 could be a critical date, as both Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah look to finalize their squads.
