Celtic have put a £4 million price tag on Egyptian World Cup midfielder Emam Ashour, hoping the ‘precious talent’ can bolster a side that sits third in the Premiership with 67 points after 33 games (21W‑4D‑8L) and a recent run of five straight wins.

Who is Emam Ashour and why does Celtic want him?

Ashour impressed at the 2026 World Cup, showing the stamina and box‑to‑box drive that reminded scouts of Scott McTominay. Primarily a central midfielder, he can drift wide and add a late surge into the box. Team Talk reports that Celtic have been asked to meet a £4 million fee to secure the player quickly, before other Premier League clubs intervene. The Egyptian international is reportedly keen to join a club playing Champions League football next season, which Celtic will enjoy after qualifying.

How does the target fit Celtic’s current squad?

Martin O’Neill’s side already added Colombian striker Camilo Duran from Qarabag this week, ending a slow start compared with Rangers. Yet the midfield still lacks a true engine to link defence and attack. Ashour’s ability to press high and arrive late could complement veteran John McGinn and give more options for attacking transitions. With Celtic conceding 35 goals this season and scoring 59, a player who can win the ball in midfield may help tighten the back line while keeping the goal‑mouth busy.

What competition does Celtic face for the signing?

Sky Sports notes that several Premier League outfits have shown interest, meaning Celtic must move fast. The club’s recent form – five wins in a row, most recently a 3‑1 victory over Dunfermline on 23 May 2026 – gives them leverage, but the financial gap to English clubs remains a hurdle. If the deal goes through, Ashour could join pre‑season training ahead of the home clash with Middlesbrough on 18 July, giving him a chance to gel with the squad before the league resumes.

What are the next steps for Celtic?

Negotiations with Ashour’s representatives are reportedly in the final stages. Celtic will need to finalize the transfer fee and personal terms within weeks, aiming to register the player before the summer window closes. Should the move collapse, O’Neill may revisit striker Kelechi Iheanacho, who is also linked with a new contract. Either way, the club’s priority is to keep the momentum from their five‑game winning streak and close the three‑point gap to leaders Heart of Midlothian.

Celtic’s pursuit of Ashour reflects a broader strategy: add quality depth, maintain Champions League qualification, and keep pressure on Hearts as the title race tightens.