The one thing Celtic fans quickly learned about Arne Engels that will excite West Ham | OneFootball

With West Ham in advanced talks for Arne Engels, what might the Celtic player bring to West Ham?

This summer has been dominated by outgoings at West Ham, but finally there is some news of potential incomings at the London Stadium.

The Hammers knew that they would have to move players on before pursuing their own targets, with Mateus Fernandes and Cysencio Summerville's exits generating well over £100million.

With just a couple of weeks until the Irons' opening game against Burnley, it is safe to say that the club are not yet ready for the new season, but the same could be said for much of the division, including the Clarets.

West Ham are now advancing in talks with Celtic's Arne Engels, who had been linked with several Premier League clubs earlier this summer, as the East Londoners will be encouraged by one particular strength that pleased the Bhoys when he arrived in Glasgow.

West Ham target Arne Engels showed his versatility early at Celtic

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When Engels arrived at Celtic Park, the Bhoys' manager, Brendan Rodgers, was quick to point out exactly why the Glasgow side spent a club-record £11m on his services.

"He has a wide range of attributes which will allow him to play a number of positions in midfield, so we feel he is an excellent acquisition for the club," he told the club website.

"I think Arne’s style of play, his energy and his technical ability really will suit our game model."

Indeed, Rodgers was right as the Belgian was versatile within central midfield, operating as a number six, number eight and even as a more advanced attacking midfielder.

Not only has he been utilised in the hub of midfield, but he has also played as a wide midfielder, at right-back and also as a wing-back, which is why he is such an appealing tool for the Hammers.

What else could Engels offer Nuno Espírito Santo's side?

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Engels has been a fit, consistent and reliable figure for Celtic, amassing 98 appearances for the Scottish side in just two seasons.

He also offers a significant goal threat, having notched 17 goals and 21 assists in all competitions for the Bhoys, with around half of those coming from the penalty spot.

The 22-year-old was a significant creative threat in the Scottish Premiership last term despite Celtic's inconsistency, ranking in the top 10 per cent of central midfielders for expected assists (xA), chances created and successful crosses, according to Fotmob.

At 22, the Belgian international has his whole career ahead of him, and if he can get the East Londoners promoted to the Premier League, then his stock will only increase.

What might Nuno's midfield look like with Engels in it?

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Nuno has a good mix of youth and experience in the heart of his midfield, and he will surely want a blend if the Hammers are to compete in the Championship.

Unfortunately, Tomáš Souček is set for an extended period on the sidelines, but the return of James Ward-Prowse from his loan with Burnley could feel like a new signing in the second tier.

Then, there is academy graduate Freddie Potts, a more defensively minded midfielder who starred during his 2024/25 season-long loan with Portsmouth.

George Earthy, another academy product who can operate in a more attacking role, also has Championship pedigree, having made his mark during two Bristol City loan spells.

If Engels signs, then he would likely line up alongside a more experienced head, as well as one of Potts, Earthy or maybe both on occasion, in what would be a revitalised midfield.