Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed that Belgium midfielder Arne Engels is currently undergoing a medical ahead of a potential transfer to West Ham United. O'Neill expressed his disappointment at Engels' departure, acknowledging the player's desire for a move to English football.
The Scottish champions had previously rejected a multi-million pound offer for the 22-year-old from Nottingham Forest during the winter transfer window. O'Neill had hoped to retain Engels until after Celtic's Champions League play-off against LASK, with the first leg scheduled for next Wednesday. However, West Ham's desire for Engels to be available for the opening day of the season appears to have accelerated the move.
O'Neill also discussed the recent leg muscle injury sustained by Canada right-back Alistair Johnston, who went off at half-time in Celtic's 5-1 win at Kilmarnock on Sunday. Johnston is expected to be out for a few weeks, past the transfer deadline. Celtic have recently signed Egypt winger Haissem Hassan and Germany Under-21 midfielder Mika Baur, and O'Neill anticipates further arrivals, potentially including Chelsea left-back Landon Emenalo on loan.