Celtic could be facing a major transfer battle this summer as interest in Arne Engels continues to grow across Europe.
The Belgian midfielder enjoyed an impressive first season at Parkhead after arriving from Augsburg in a club-record £11 million deal, quickly establishing himself as one of Brendan Rodgers’ most important players.
Now, reports suggest Borussia Dortmund are among the clubs exploring a potential move, with the Bundesliga giants believed to be in talks over a deal for the 22-year-old.
The interest doesn’t stop there. Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, AC Milan, Lazio and Napoli have all been credited with monitoring Engels’ situation ahead of what could become one of the biggest transfer sagas involving a Celtic player this summer.
Nottingham Forest already tested Celtic’s resolve with a reported £25 million bid in January, only for the Scottish champions to reject the offer. However, the Premier League side remain interested and could return with an improved bid.
Engels is expected to make a decision on his future before Celtic return for pre-season training on June 26. The midfielder recently changed representation, a move that has inevitably fuelled speculation over a possible transfer.
With Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate also attracting attention from clubs across Europe, Celtic are preparing for a potentially significant squad rebuild before the new campaign begins.
The bottom line.
Borussia Dortmund and several top European clubs are circling. Celtic have already turned down a £25 million offer. And Arne Engels is set to decide his future in the coming days.
