Celtic manager Martin O’Neill is preparing for the summer departures of Arne Engels and Daizen Maeda, two players whose exits could reshape the squad’s Champions League ambitions. With the club sitting third in the Premiership (67 points, 21 wins from 33 games) and just three behind title leaders Heart of Midlothian, O’Neill’s ability to retain key players will define the next campaign.

Who’s leaving? Engels and Maeda’s uncertain futures

O’Neill has reportedly accepted that 28-year-old Maeda—a fan favorite since his 2019 arrival—will leave this summer, mirroring the club’s past approach to expiring contracts. The manager has long admired Henrik Larsson’s final-year loyalty but may lack leverage to match rival bids. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Belgian midfielder Engels, who joined last winter, has drawn interest from European clubs, with reports suggesting Feyenoord and Hertha Berlin are in advanced talks for goalkeeper Tjark Ernst, a Celtic target.

Kenny and Tahirovic: Celtic’s hot properties

The transfer speculation isn’t all bad. 23-year-old striker Johnny Kenny—who helped Millwall earn Championship promotion on loan—has sparked a bidding war, with Bolton Wanderers and Millwall reportedly offering permanent deals. Meanwhile, 23-year-old midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic, a Brøndby standout, remains a Celtic dream signing, though no formal approach has been made.

What’s next for Celtic’s squad?

With five straight wins—including a 3-1 demolition of Dunfermline on May 23—the Bhoys enter the close season on a high. But O’Neill’s summer will be defined by retaining Engels and Maeda while chasing Tahirovic or Kenny. Their next test comes July 14, when they face Sporting CP in a pre-season friendly—a chance to assess squad depth before the transfer window closes.

Current standing: 3rd in Premiership (67 pts, +24 GD), 3 pts behind Hearts, 5W-0D-0L in last five matches.