Celtic Football Club have confirmed the acquisition of Egyptian international winger Haissem Hassan from Spanish side Real Oviedo, sealing what is reported to be a deal worth up to £9 million. The young forward travelled to London for a medical examination, passed it successfully and subsequently signed a four‑year contract that also contains an optional twelve‑month extension at the club's discretion.
The financial terms of the transfer involve an upfront payment of roughly £6 million, with an additional £3 million in performance‑related add‑ons. A sizable portion of those add‑ons is linked directly to Celtic's progress in the upcoming Champions League campaign – specifically, a clause that will trigger extra payments if the Glasgow side qualify for the group stage of Europe's premier club competition later this month. With the Champions League play‑off against Austrian side LASK Linz looming next week, Celtic have moved swiftly to ensure Hassan can be registered in time to feature in the squad.
The registration deadline falls on Thursday, and the club retains the ability to add two further players before the final cut‑off on the following Tuesday. In a media interview arranged by the club, the 24‑year‑old expressed his enthusiasm for the move: "I am incredibly grateful to be here and genuinely thrilled.
Celtic is a massive club. Growing up, I always saw them in the Champions League, surrounded by big‑name players.
I can’t wait to get on the pitch with the lads." He went on to explain his decision to leave Spain after six years: "At 24, it feels like the right moment to step away from Spanish football. Celtic’s history, the legendary players, the passionate supporters and the electric atmosphere make this the perfect stage for me." Hassan added, "I know I am joining the biggest club in Scotland, and I am eager to take the next step in my career." Hassan, who attracted attention with his performances at the recent World Cup, has been a long‑term target for the Hoops. Celtic entered the summer window looking for a left‑footed winger capable of operating on the right flank, and Hassan fit that profile perfectly. During the 2023‑24 season with Real Oviedo, he featured in 38 matches, primarily on the right wing, and supplied three assists while also contributing to the team's overall attacking play.
He becomes Celtic’s third summer signing, joining the newly arrived strikers Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh, who are expected to bolster the club’s goal‑scoring options. The addition of Hassan adds depth and variety to the wing positions, giving manager Martin O'Neill more tactical flexibility. Speaking about the transfer, O'Neill praised the club’s ability to secure the player despite interest from other teams: "We are delighted to bring Haissem to Celtic and I think the club has done really well to secure a player of such quality, with a number of other clubs interested in him. He is someone who I think has the ability and experience to do very well for us, performing at a high level in domestic and international football." The manager continued, "I know he is excited about being with us and I am sure our fans will enjoy the energy and attacking intent which Haissem will bring to matches.
I hope he will become a very important member of our squad going forward." The signing is significant not only for its financial size but also for what it signals about Celtic’s ambitions this season. By investing in a player with international experience and a proven record in a competitive Spanish league, the club is signalling its intent to compete on multiple fronts – domestically in the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup, and on the European stage.
Hassan’s pace, dribbling ability, and willingness to cut inside onto his stronger left foot should complement Celtic’s existing attacking patterns, which often rely on width and quick transitions. Beyond the tactical considerations, Hassan’s arrival also offers commercial benefits. As an Egyptian international, he brings a new market of supporters and potential sponsorship opportunities, aligning with Celtic’s global branding strategy.
The club’s fan base, known for its passionate support, will likely welcome a player who has already demonstrated a hunger for success at the highest level. Looking ahead, the immediate challenge for Hassan will be to adapt to the physicality and tempo of Scottish football, which differs from the technical style he experienced in Spain. The early registration for the LASK Linz play‑off provides a valuable chance for him to integrate with his new teammates, understand the manager’s expectations, and showcase his abilities on a big stage. A strong performance could cement his place in the starting XI and endear him to the Celtic faithful.
In summary, Celtic’s acquisition of Haissem Hassan represents a calculated investment in a young, versatile winger who brings both on‑field qualities and off‑field commercial appeal. With the Champions League registration deadline approaching, the club is poised to field a strengthened squad capable of challenging for titles at home and making an impact in Europe. Hassan’s own words reflect a deep respect for Celtic’s heritage and a personal ambition to grow, suggesting that both player and club are aligned in their pursuit of success.