Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has provided a major transfer update, confirming the club may not be finished with signings despite the window closing. The news came after a 3-0 Premiership victory over Aberdeen, a result that keeps Celtic top of the table with a perfect record of four wins from four games.
O'Neill left his post-match press conference abruptly to continue transfer work, telling reporters, "I need to go!" The UEFA registration deadline passed at 11pm on Wednesday, with the domestic deadline following at 5pm on Thursday. According to a report in The Scotsman, several deals were completed just before the European cutoff.
What signings did Celtic complete?
Celtic confirmed the arrival of defender Joel van den Berg from PSV Eindhoven on a four-year deal just before 10.30pm. Right-back Jordan Lotomba's season-long loan from Feyenoord was announced moments before the 11pm deadline. The club also secured several other loan moves earlier in the day.
Landon Emenalo and Shim Mheuka joined from Chelsea, while Oliver Sorensen arrived from Parma. Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone came in from Wolves and was on the bench for the Aberdeen match. O'Neill stated he is prepared to wait a couple of weeks for Emenalo, who is carrying a slight injury. One deal that remains in the pipeline is the transfer of Gvidas Gineitis from Torino.
How does this affect the European squad?
Players signed after the 11pm Wednesday deadline cannot be registered for the upcoming league phase of the Europa League. This includes any further additions O'Neill might pursue. The manager made it clear this would not stop him from trying to strengthen, saying he would definitely want to sign someone else if possible, even if they miss the European deadline.
Celtic's strong start to the season, with 11 goals scored and only two conceded, provides a solid platform. They currently lead the Premiership by two points from St Mirren. You can track their progress on our standings page. The squad does have injury concerns, with Callum Osmand, Jota, Kasper Høgh, and Kieran Tierney currently sidelined.
Who has left the Celtic squad?
The influx of new faces follows several departures. Reo Hatate has left for Burnley and Johnny Kenny has joined Preston North End. Midfielder Arne Engels moved to West Ham prior to the play-off, and Celtic failed to replace him directly. These exits have created space and a need for the recent recruitment drive.
O'Neill expressed pleasure with the transfer activity despite the players leaving. He highlighted the need for depth, especially with a busy schedule that includes European competition. Fans can view the updated player roster on our squad section.
What did O'Neill say about future business?
In a light-hearted moment, the manager joked about the scale of potential further business. "We're looking at another 15 (signings), they're just outside the door at this minute, they're waiting to come in at quarter past ten!" he said. While clearly humorous, the comment underscores an ongoing desire to improve the group.
The immediate focus returns to the pitch. Celtic's next fixture is a return match against Aberdeen, scheduled for December 19th at Pittodrie. You can find all upcoming dates on our fixtures list. The team will aim to maintain their 100% league record and integrate their new signings successfully.
