Celtic are closing in on the signing of Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan, with the Scottish champions set to pay less than the Egypt international's £10.4 million release clause.
The 24-year-old caught the eye at this summer's World Cup in North America, where he impressed against Argentina in the round of 16. Celtic had been linked with an interest even before that performance.
Breakthrough in negotiations
According to La Nuevo Espana, a deal is expected to be concluded soon, with only final details needing to be ironed out. Celtic's offer, which has been accepted, has satisfied all parties despite falling short of the player's release clause.
The Hoops hope to get the deal over the line before their Champions League play-off clash against LASK. The first leg takes place at Celtic Park on Wednesday, 19 August (8pm kick-off), with the second leg in Austria just under a week later. Hassan could now be involved in the match.
Player's preference for Europe
It's added that Hassan has already turned down a financially lucrative opportunity to move to Saudi Arabia due to his desire to remain in Europe, allowing Celtic to make their move.
Real Oviedo are looking to make sales as they balance their books following relegation from La Liga last season. Having made several new signings this summer, the Spanish side needs a major sale to register their squads without limits from the salary cap in Spain.
Speaking last month, the club's sporting director David Fernandez gave an update on possible sales: “We are prepared for anything that might happen. We already have a significant portion of the squad with us. This is all a club decision. We're going to try to keep the best players and let go of those who need to leave. Everything that happens makes us activate or deactivate things. Everything that happens is part of the job.”
