Sunderland Are Facing Stiff Competition For This Celtic Midfielder: Good Option For Le Bris? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Fraser Fletcher mentioned that Sunderland are facing stiff competition for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels this summer. It has been claimed that the Black Cats would have to rival AC Milan, Roma, Lazio, Napoli, Crystal Palace, Fulham and other Bundesliga clubs in the race to sign the Belgian talent.

Engels’ Impressive Form In Scottish Football

Engels managed to shine at times with his performances at the centre of Celtic‘s midfield in the previous campaign. The 22-year-old participated in 46 matches for the Scottish outfit last season, scoring seven times and grabbing eight assists across all fronts.

The Belgian talent is currently among the best central midfielders in the Scottish Premiership. Thus, it is no wonder that Sunderland are in the mix to acquire his services later this year.

His current contract at Celtic Park will run out in the summer of 2028, which could make it tough for the Black Cats to sign him on the cheap this off-season.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – APRIL 11: Arne Engels of Celtic during delivers a cross during the William Hill Premiership between Celtic and St. Mirren at Celtic Park on April 11, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

Will Engels Be A Good Option For Sunderland Boss Regis Le Bris?

Engels is a good tackler of the ball and doesn’t mind putting in a tirless shift for his team defensively in the middle of the park. He can strike the ball with power from long range and has got the eye to play some decisive passes on the offensive end of the field.

The Belgian sensation is full of energy and running at the centre of the park. Engels is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also serve as a right-sided wide player or as a right-back if asked to do so. However, only time will tell whether he can cope with the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Black Cats manage to sign him later this year.

We can expect Engels to add more quality and depth to Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris’ midfield. He is good enough to challenge for a regular first-team spot at the Stadium of Light next season.

At 22, Engels has got the potential to be a future star in English football, which makes him a good option for the Black Cats to pursue in the long run. Thus, the Wearside club would be wise to get a deal done for him this summer. However, Le Bris has to give him some time to adjust to life in the Premier League before he can get the best out of the player.