Celtic Football Club have confirmed the acquisition of Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan from Spanish side Real Oviedo, sealing what is reported to be a deal worth up to £9 million. The 24‑year‑old international travelled to London to complete his medical examination and has subsequently signed a four‑year contract, with the club retaining an option to extend the agreement by an additional twelve months should they wish. The transfer fee structure has been disclosed as an upfront payment of roughly £6 million, supplemented by a further £3 million in performance‑related add‑ons. A significant portion of those conditional payments is tied to Celtic’s progression into the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, a target the club hopes to achieve later this month.
Because the paperwork has now been filed, Hassan is eligible to be registered in time for Celtic’s upcoming Champions League play‑off clash against Austrian side LASK Linz, scheduled for next week. The registration deadline falls on Thursday, and the club still has the opportunity to add two more players before the final cut‑off on Tuesday.
In a press interview with Celtic’s media team, the new signing expressed his excitement: “I’m really grateful to be here and very happy. Celtic is a massive club.
Growing up, I always saw them in the Champions League, playing against the best and featuring world‑class talent. I can’t wait to get on the pitch with the lads.” He continued, “At 24, I feel it’s the right moment to leave Spain after six years. With Celtic’s rich history, the passionate supporters and the electric atmosphere, I think this is the perfect stage for me. I know I’m joining the biggest club in Scotland and I’m eager to take the next step in my career.” Hassan, who impressed observers during the recent World Cup with his pace and technical ability, had been a long‑term target for the Glasgow side.
Celtic were specifically looking for a left‑footed player capable of operating on the right wing, a profile that matches Hassan’s skill set. During the 2023‑24 season with Real Oviedo, he featured in 38 matches, delivering three assists from his preferred wide position and showcasing the kind of directness and creativity that the Hoops hope will translate into more goals and chances in the Scottish Premiership and European competition. His arrival follows the signings of strikers Camilo Duran and Kasper Høgh, making him the third major addition to the squad this summer. The club’s recruitment strategy appears focused on injecting youthful energy and technical flair into an already potent attacking unit.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill praised the deal, stating, “We are delighted to bring Haissem to Celtic and I think the club has done really well to secure a player of such quality, especially with interest from a number of other clubs.” He added, “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. 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 of Hassan reflects Celtic’s broader ambition to compete not only for the Scottish Premiership title but also to make a deep run in Europe. By securing a player who combines speed, dribbling prowess, and an eye for a final pass, the club hopes to diversify its attacking options, giving manager O’Neill more tactical flexibility.
Hassan’s left‑footedness on the right flank allows him to cut inside onto his stronger foot, creating shooting opportunities from the edge of the box as well as delivering dangerous crosses with his weaker foot when required. Beyond the tactical benefits, Hassan’s arrival is also expected to boost the commercial profile of the club. As an Egyptian international who has already featured on the world stage, he brings a new market of supporters from the Middle East and North Africa, regions where Celtic have been seeking to expand their fan base.
His presence could lead to increased merchandise sales, higher viewership for Celtic matches on satellite and streaming platforms in those territories, and potential sponsorship opportunities with brands looking to tap into that demographic. The timing of the transfer is crucial. Celtic are set to face LASK Linz in the Champions League qualifying round, a tie that could determine whether the club enjoys the financial windfall and prestige of the group stage.
Having a fresh, motivated winger like Hassan available for selection could provide the extra spark needed to break down a disciplined Austrian defence. His experience of playing in high‑pressure environments, both in Spain’s Segunda División and on the international stage, should aid his adaptation to the intensity of European knockout football.
In summary, Celtic’s signing of Haissem Hassan represents a strategic investment in youthful talent with proven ability at a high level. The deal, structured with an initial £6 million fee plus £3 million in add‑ons linked to Champions League progression, underscores the club’s confidence that Hassan will contribute both on the field and off it. With a four‑year contract and an optional extra year, Celtic have secured his services for the foreseeable future, giving manager Martin O’Neill a versatile attacking option as the club aims to dominate domestically and make a significant impact in Europe.