Celtic Ready To Land £9m Winger After Major Transfer Breakthrough: How Can Martin O’Neill Use Him? | OneFootball

Celtic are closing in on another significant addition after fresh progress in negotiations for Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan. According to Anthony Joseph of Sky Sports, the Scottish champions have submitted an offer worth around £6 million upfront, with bonus payments capable of lifting the package to approximately £9 million.

Celtic transfer latest as £9m agreement moves closer

Discussions have stretched over several weeks because both clubs are still trying to settle the bonus structure. Even so, there is increasing confidence that a compromise can finally be reached. Earlier in the window, reports claimed Hassan preferred a switch to Marseille, yet Celtic have continued pushing and now appear closer than ever to getting the deal over the line.

Hassan attracted interest despite Oviedo’s relegation from La Liga. His directness, sharp acceleration and willingness to attack defenders have convinced Celtic that he can bring something different to their wide options. Sky Sports’ latest update suggests the Scottish champions remain optimistic that the transfer will be completed before the new season gathers momentum.

T4O take: Why Celtic want Hassan despite modest numbers

BARCELONA, SPAIN – MARCH 31: Haissem Hassan of Egypt looks on during an international friendly match between Spain and Egypt at RCDE Stadium on March 31, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Statistics rarely tell the whole story, and Hassan’s league record from the 2025/26 season proves exactly that. The 24-year-old featured in 37 La Liga matches, playing 1,965 minutes while producing three assists without finding the net.

That return doesn’t jump off the page. His underlying numbers prove a completely different point. Hassan ranked among Europe’s strongest performers for progressive carries and successful one-against-one dribbles, constantly moving his team into dangerous areas. Those qualities explain why clubs across Europe stayed interested after Oviedo dropped into the second tier.

Another detail is worth noting. Hassan reportedly turned down a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia because he wanted to continue competing in Europe. Reports have already indicated that he has agreed personal terms on a four-year contract with Celtic, leaving the transfer fee as the main issue still under discussion.

How Martin O’Neill could use him

Martin O’Neill’s squad has lost natural width following Nicolas Kühn’s departure, while Daizen Maeda’s has also left for Ipswich Town, which creates another gap in attacking areas. Hassan offers a straightforward solution. He likes to stay wide, isolate full-backs and drive inside onto his stronger left foot whenever space opens.

His role wouldn’t revolve around scoring goals. Instead, O’Neill could ask him to supply new striker Kasper Høgh with early crosses, sharp cut-backs and quick deliveries after beating his marker. Celtic have lacked that kind of unpredictability in wide areas at times, and Hassan’s ability to carry the ball over long distances gives the attack a different rhythm without forcing him into a role that doesn’t suit his strengths.