Celtic have been drawn against LASK in the Champions League play-off, and manager Martin O'Neill is under pressure to finalize his squad before the August 14 registration deadline. The Premiership champions have already spent £17million on Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh, but fans are eager for more new faces ahead of the two-legged tie against the Austrian side.
Key Transfer Targets and Departures
While Celtic look to add reinforcements, they are also bracing for bids on key players. Record Sport has the latest on seven transfer headlines involving the Parkhead giants.
Fares Ghedjemis
Celtic have reignited their interest in Frosinone winger Fares Ghedjemis, who is also a target for Rangers. The Hoops failed to sign the Algeria international in January but are prepared to increase their offer after a reported £6million bid was rejected by the Serie A newcomers. Monaco are also monitoring the 23-year-old, who scored 15 goals last season to help Frosinone gain promotion.
Mika Baur
Celtic remain in talks to sign Paderborn playmaker Mika Baur. The Germany U21 international is in the final year of his contract, and Paderborn boss Ralf Ketteman said: "Of course, we're considering the worst-case scenario, that Mika and Laurin (Curda) might leave. But I'm confident that both will stay. And if not, we'll find a solution. We have good players and good ideas. I'm really relaxed about it."
Arne Engels
A move for Baur could be financed by the sale of Belgium star Arne Engels. The 22-year-old is wanted by West Ham, who have had a £20million offer plus £5million in add-ons rejected. O'Neill confirmed the bid, saying: "West Ham [for Engels], yeah, I think there’s definitely truth in that. I think there’s been something put in that hasn’t remotely made our valuation, for a start."
Alistair Johnston
O'Neill is also resigned to losing right back Alistair Johnston, with Record Sport understanding the Canada star is close to joining Everton for £15million. O'Neill revealed that Everton boss David Moyes contacted him directly, stating: "In fairness, David Moyes did call me last week and say that there would be contact. But I don’t know how far that has progressed, if it has at all. But yeah, that would be disappointing, obviously. But I suppose it’s to be expected, you know, players who have done well."
Haissem Hassan
Celtic fans would welcome World Cup breakout star Haissem Hassan, a winger from Real Oviedo. The 24-year-old impressed for Egypt in their last-16 loss to Argentina, and sources in Spain claim the relegated La Liga side are keen to sell. Record Sport has learned that Celtic remain in discussions over a deal, with a reported €12million (£10.3million) release clause in his contract.
Nikolas Polster
Celtic are also looking for goalkeeper cover, with Austrian shot-stopper Nikolas Polster linked. However, Wolfsberger president Dietmar Riegler believes a transfer is unlikely, saying: "I consider the probability of Polster transferring to be very low." Manager Thomas Silberberger added: "I spoke with the president. He assured me that everything is fine. Therefore, Nik Polster will play and start the season as number one. There isn't even an official offer yet. We're not even that far along yet. We'll see what happens after that. The transfer window is still open until the beginning of September."
James Penrice
Celtic are also monitoring AEK Athens full back James Penrice. The Scot joined the Greek giants from Hearts for £2million a year ago but has been told he can leave. Rangers, Middlesbrough, and Blackburn are also linked with the 27-year-old.
