Manchester City Move Could Trigger Arne Engels’ Celtic Departure | OneFootball

Celtic are entering a critical summer as the club look to reinforce their squad ahead of another high-stakes campaign. After a promising showing in last season’s Champions League and domestic competitions, interest in their standout players is heating up. One name drawing increasing attention is Belgian midfielder Arne Engels, who delivered a composed and impactful debut season in Glasgow.

Arne Engels of Celtic FC and Jashari Ardon of Club Brugge during the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and Club Brugge on November 27, 2024. Photo: Peter De Voecht

Still just 21, Engels’ development curve makes him one of the most promising young players in the squad—precisely the type of talent that attracts European interest when the transfer window opens.

The Hoops are reportedly bracing for inquiries from clubs abroad, especially after Engels was linked with Serie A side Atalanta. The potential move stems from Manchester City’s rumoured interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson, whose possible departure could prompt the Italian side to seek a like-for-like replacement. Engels is understood to be high on their shortlist. While Celtic would prefer to retain their young star, the reality of modern football means they may have to listen to serious offers, especially if the bid reflects Engels’ long-term value and potential.

2024-11-14 Belgium v Italy – UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group. Arne Engels of Belgium dribbles during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A2 match between Belgium and Italy at King Baudouin Stadium on November 14, 2024 in Brussels, Belgium. Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency Brussels

Online speculation around transfers like this is increasingly fuelling interest in sports betting markets, particularly among users of non GamStop betting sites UK. These platforms offer punters a more flexible experience, with access to niche markets—such as transfer outcomes—that are often limited or unavailable on traditional UK-licensed sites. Bettors are drawn to the broader odds selection, quicker account creation, and fewer regional restrictions, making them ideal for tracking ongoing summer transfer developments like Engels’ potential departure. For fans with an eye on team dynamics, these options open up more than just matchday predictions.

Reo Hatate looks angry. Aberdeen 1-5 Celtic. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

The situation is further complicated by Celtic’s current midfield depth. Reo Hatate’s uncertain injury timeline already poses a selection dilemma, and losing Engels on top of that would leave a sizeable gap in central midfield. With the demands of European fixtures and domestic campaigns, Brendan Rodgers knows that squad rotation will be essential. Engels played a critical role in several key matches last season, showing maturity in possession and tenacity in defence. His absence would likely accelerate the club’s need to secure reinforcements.

Atalanta’s interest is no surprise given their focus on developing young players and fitting them into a high-tempo system. Engels, with his box-to-box style and tactical discipline, suits their model well. But for Celtic, losing a player of his profile wouldn’t just be a personnel issue—it would also impact the tactical flexibility Rodgers has been cultivating. While the club are always scouting replacements, finding one who can adapt as quickly as Engels did could prove difficult, particularly with limited time in the window.

Arne Engels and Nicolas Kuhn of Celtic FC react during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between FC Bayern München and Celtic FC at on February 18, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Celtic’s transfer stance is typically pragmatic. The board is open to letting players move on, provided the fee reflects the player’s value and allows for squad investment. Engels is contracted and not actively seeking an exit, but interest from clubs like Atalanta—especially if they receive funds from a high-profile sale—can change the equation. A bid approaching or exceeding £10 million might be enough to bring Celtic to the negotiating table. But equally, they may choose to resist unless they’ve lined up a suitable successor.

Rodgers has already shown intent to freshen up his squad, and he’ll want clarity on Engels’ future early in the window. The longer uncertainty drags on, the more it affects pre-season plans and transfer priorities. With Champions League qualifiers on the horizon, Rodgers needs a settled midfield capable of meeting both physical and tactical demands. Engels’ profile is hard to replicate, combining youth with top-level experience, which is why interest in him continues to grow.

St Johnstone v Celtic, Scottish Cup Semi-Final at Hampden Park on 20 April 2025: Arne Engels Celtic. Photo Alex Todd IMAGO

Supporters are naturally uneasy about the potential exit. After years of inconsistency in midfield, Engels brought a sense of stability and future promise. His link-up play, work rate, and adaptability made him a fan favourite in just one season. Replacing such attributes isn’t easy, especially in a tight transfer window. If a deal does go through, supporters will hope any incoming funds are used to bring in both immediate reinforcements and longer-term prospects.

Much of this hinges on Manchester City’s reported move for Ederson, which remains in the balance. If City seal the deal, Atalanta will act swiftly, and that could set off a domino effect. Celtic, knowing this, are monitoring the situation closely. While transfer speculation often fizzles out, Engels’ name isn’t disappearing from the rumour mill. Until a firm decision is made, the club remain in a state of cautious preparation.

Arne Engels celebratesSt Mirren v Celtic, Scottish Premiership, Saturday 1st March 2025. Photo: Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

In the end, Celtic’s summer may be defined by how they handle potential departures like this one. The club have ambitions to build on their domestic dominance and strengthen their European credentials.

Whether Arne Engels is part of that picture will depend on Atalanta’s next move—and perhaps Manchester City’s.

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