Celtic are poised to make a move for Tottenham Hotspur’s 21‑year‑old midfielder Alfie Devine, with manager Martin O’Neill pressing the board for a formal bid. The Bhoys sit third in the Premiership on 67 points, boasting a 5‑game winning run (WWW​WW) and a recent 3‑1 victory over Dunfermline on 23 May 2026.

Why is Alfie Devine on O’Neill’s radar?

O’Neill has watched Devine several times last season and believes the English‑born playmaker ticks the right boxes for Celtic’s midfield rebuild. With Arne Engels and Benjamin Nygren possibly heading to England, the club needs a young, adaptable creator. Devine’s eight goals and six assists during his loan at Preston show he can influence games, and his contract at Tottenham expires after this season, making him a timely target.

How does the transfer market shape the deal?

Tottenham have signalled willingness to sell, expecting a bid in the £4‑6 million range. The North London side view the offer as a final chance to cash in, especially after recent signings of Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonalip limited Devine’s pathway to the first team. Southampton have also entered the race, meaning Celtic must act quickly if they want to outbid the competition.

What would Devine bring to Celtic’s project?

At Parkhead, Devine could develop under O’Neill’s guidance into a top‑class midfielder. His age and experience in English football align with Celtic’s strategy of nurturing talent for both domestic success and European ambition. If the deal goes through, he would join a side that has scored 59 goals and conceded 35 this season, a +24 goal difference that underlines a strong attacking identity.

What are the next steps for the Bhoys?

Sources say O’Neill is awaiting the green light from the club hierarchy. Should the board approve, Celtic will submit a formal offer this week, hoping to secure Devine before the transfer window closes. The manager’s confidence suggests he sees the youngster as a key piece in maintaining Celtic’s push for the title, currently three points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian.

If the transfer materialises, Celtic will add a player with Premier League pedigree to a squad already enjoying a five‑match winning streak, potentially strengthening their bid for the championship while keeping the midfield dynamic and future‑proof.