Report: Celtic Agree £11m Deal to Sign Bundesliga Midfielder as Matt O’Riley Replacement | OneFootball

Celtic Secures Augsburg’s Versatile Midfielder Arne Engels

Deal Details Revealed

Celtic Football Club has successfully concluded negotiations with FC Augsburg to secure the signature of Arne Engels, a promising Belgian midfielder known for his adaptability on the field. As Football Transfers confirmed, Celtic’s pursuit of Engels was fuelled by their recent acquisition of Adam Idah, aiming to bolster their squad further with a £11 million (€13m) deal enhanced by potential bonuses.

A significant aspect of the agreement is the 20% sell-on clause included by Augsburg, which could benefit the Bundesliga club if Engels thrives in the Scottish Premiership.

Engels’ Versatility a Key Asset

Engels, who transitioned from Club Brugge’s academy to Augsburg, has not only been a defensive stalwart but also a capable stand-in as a right-back and winger. His versatility caught the eye of Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco and has been integral to his development. Despite not making the cut for Euro 2024, his participation in the Belgium training camp underscores his rising profile.

Photo: IMAGO

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers values Engels’ adaptability, seeing potential for him to play in more attacking roles, possibly filling the void left by Matt O’Riley’s departure, which garnered €20m last season. Engels’ ability to perform across multiple positions could make him a key player for Celtic, replicating or even surpassing O’Riley’s impact.

Financial Implications and Future Prospects

The deal’s financial structure, particularly the sale of O’Riley, facilitated Celtic’s ability to meet Augsburg’s asking price. Engels’ arrival is seen not just as a direct replacement but as a strategic addition to enhance the team’s dynamics and flexibility, potentially leading to a richer tactical setup under Rodgers.

Engels’ Potential Impact at Celtic Park

Given his track record at Augsburg, where he notably scored three times last season and demonstrated significant prowess as a right-winger, Engels is poised to become a pivotal figure at Celtic Park. His crossing ability and midfield versatility will be crucial as Celtic aims to maintain its competitive edge both domestically and in European competitions.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a fervent supporter of Celtic, it’s exhilarating to see such a strategic acquisition. Arne Engels is not just any player; he’s a versatile powerhouse capable of transforming our midfield dynamics. His background as a defensive midfielder combined with his tested skills in more advanced roles makes him a thrilling prospect. What excites me most is Brendan Rodgers’ vision for Engels. Imagine him unleashing those crosses from the right-wing or slotting into a more central, attacking role – the possibilities are boundless!

Engels’ performance last season hints at a player ready to step up, and stepping into O’Riley’s shoes is no small feat, but Engels seems equipped for it. This isn’t just about filling a gap; it’s about dreaming bigger. Every cross, every tackle, every strategic placement on the field could elevate Celtic to new heights this season.

I can barely contain my excitement for what this means on the European stage. Engels’ development under such a revered manager as Rodgers and his integration into a squad already brimming with talent could be the recipe for an unforgettable season. Let’s rally behind Engels and the team as they gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating journey.