Celtic Transfer Deadline Day: £11M Record Signing, Player Exits, and New Targets on Radar

Celtic are gearing up for a hectic transfer deadline day, with multiple deals expected to unfold before the window closes. The biggest news coming out of Parkhead is the potential record-breaking signing of Belgian star Arne Engels from Augsburg for £11 million, which would set a new transfer record for the club.

According to Sky Sports, Celtic have agreed to a deal that will see the talented midfielder join the team on a four-year contract. Engels is set to arrive in Scotland on Friday to undergo a medical examination and finalize the necessary paperwork to complete his move. This signing will surpass Celtic’s previous record of £9.5 million spent on Adam Idah earlier this summer, highlighting the club’s ambition under manager Brendan Rodgers.

In addition to Engels, Celtic have also secured the loan signing of left-back Alex Valle from Barcelona earlier this week, bolstering their defensive options. However, the club isn't done with their transfer activity just yet.

Reports from the Scottish Sun suggest that Sheffield United defender Auston Trusty is also poised to join Celtic. The U.S. international is expected to travel to Scotland on Friday to finalize his move to Parkhead. Trusty’s arrival would strengthen Celtic’s central defensive options and provide more depth for the season ahead.

Additionally, Dundee's Luke McCowan has caught the eye of Brendan Rodgers. The midfielder, currently at a rival Premiership club, remains on Celtic's radar as the manager looks to add more competition in the midfield area. With just 24 hours left in the transfer window, Rodgers is keen to secure his targets and strengthen the squad.

On the other hand, there are potential exits from Parkhead as well. Mikey Johnston appears set to leave Celtic, with a return to West Brom on the cards after his loan spell there last season. Johnston has reportedly traveled to England this week to undergo a medical ahead of the deadline, signaling his imminent departure.

In another development, Celtic have rejected an offer from an unnamed French club for midfielder Reo Hatate, reaffirming their stance that the player is not for sale. While Hatate will stay, other fringe players at the club, like Johnston, may attract late interest from other clubs.

As Celtic prepare for a busy end to the transfer window, fans can expect a flurry of activity both in terms of arrivals and departures, as Brendan Rodgers looks to shape his squad for the challenges ahead.