Celtic have put Egypt winger Haissem Hassan at the top of their summer target list, with manager Martin O'Neill confirming the club will return to Real Oviedo after a £3.5 million bid was rejected. The Hoops sit third in the Premiership, 67 points from 33 games (21‑4‑8) and sit three points behind leaders Hearts, while their recent form reads WWWWW after a 5‑game winning streak, highlighted by a 3‑1 victory over Dunfermline on 23 May 2026.

Why is Hassan a priority for Celtic?

Hassan lit up the World Cup round‑of‑16, tearing apart Argentina’s defence and providing an assist in Egypt’s 3‑2 loss. At 24, he logged three assists in 38 league games last season and operates as a left‑footed right winger – a profile that fits O'Neill’s desire for a new wide player. Sources tell Football Insider that his release clause sits at £10 million after Oviedo’s relegation, yet Celtic are expected to craft a lower‑than‑clause offer and gamble on a sell‑on clause to make the deal work.

How does the potential sale of Daizen Maeda fit the plan?

O'Neill has also signalled that Japanese forward Daizen Maeda will leave Celtic this summer. The 28‑year‑old, who helped secure the Premiership title last season, has expressed a wish to join a Premier League side, with Everton and Nottingham Forest mentioned. By freeing Maeda’s wages, the club hopes to reinvest the funds into new signings like Hassan, bolstering the attacking line‑up for a tighter title race.

What are the financial odds of landing Hassan?

Real Oviedo rejected Celtic’s initial £3.5 million proposal, but the Scottish side is preparing a second approach, according to the Transfer Insider podcast. While the £10 million release clause is high, Celtic’s recent profit from Maeda’s departure could narrow the gap. If the club can secure Hassan for under the clause, they would add a player proven on the world stage without breaking the bank.

What does this mean for Celtic’s title ambitions?

Adding Hassan would give Celtic a fresh attacking outlet as they chase Hearts, who sit atop the table. With 59 goals scored and 35 conceded this season (+24 goal difference), the Hoops have the firepower but need depth on the flanks. A successful Hassan signing, paired with the funds from Maeda’s exit, could keep Celtic in the hunt for the Premiership crown as the summer window closes.

What’s next for the transfer saga?

The club is expected to submit a revised bid to Oviedo within the next week, while negotiations over Maeda’s contract are already underway. Fans will be watching the club’s official channels for updates, and the summer market promises to shape Celtic’s fortunes for the 2026‑27 campaign.