Celtic Football Club have confirmed the acquisition of Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan from Spanish side Real Oviedo, finalising what appears to be a deal worth roughly £9 million in total. The 24‑year‑old international travelled to London for his medical examination, passed it successfully and subsequently signed a four‑year contract that includes an optional twelve‑month extension at the club's discretion. The transfer agreement stipulates an upfront payment of about £6 million, with an additional £3 million in performance‑related add‑ons.
A substantial portion of those add‑ons is tied to Celtic’s progress in the upcoming Champions League campaign – specifically, a bonus will be triggered if the Glasgow giants qualify for the group stage later this month. Because the paperwork has been completed promptly, there is now sufficient time for Hassan to be entered into the squad list for Celtic’s Champions League play‑off tie against Austrian side LASK Linz, scheduled for next week. The registration deadline falls on Thursday, with a final window allowing two more players to be added before the following Tuesday.
In an interview with the club’s media team, the new signing expressed his enthusiasm: "I’m really grateful to be here and really happy. Celtic is a massive club.
When I was growing up, the club was always in the Champions League and had big players. I’m really looking forward to getting on the pitch with the guys." He continued, "At 24, I think it’s a good moment for me to move away from Spain. I’ve been there for six years. With Celtic’s history, all the great players, the fans and the atmosphere, I think this is the perfect moment for me.
I know I’m joining a big club, the biggest club in Scotland, and I’m really looking forward to taking the next step." Hassan, who attracted attention with his performances at the recent World Cup, has been on Celtic’s radar for an extended period. The Hoops identified a need for a left‑footed player capable of operating on the right flank, and Hassan’s profile fit that requirement perfectly. During the 2022‑23 season with Real Oviedo, he featured in 38 matches, primarily on the right wing, and supplied three assists while contributing to the team’s overall attacking play. His arrival marks the third addition to Celtic’s summer recruitment drive, following the signings of forwards Camilo Duran and Kasper Høgh.
The club’s hierarchy believes that bolstering the attacking options will be vital as they aim to compete on multiple fronts – the Scottish Premiership, domestic cups, and the European stage. 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, 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. 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 strategic timing of the signing cannot be overstated.
Celtic are set to face LASK Linz in a two‑legged play‑off that will determine whether they progress to the lucrative group stage of the Champions League. Securing a player of Hassan’s pace, technical skill, and international experience adds depth to the squad and provides O'Neill with additional tactical flexibility. Hassan’s ability to cut inside onto his stronger left foot, combined with his work rate in tracking back, makes him a valuable asset in both attacking transitions and defensive responsibilities. Beyond the immediate impact on the pitch, Hassan’s presence is also expected to boost the commercial appeal of the club.
As an Egyptian international with a growing fan base in the Middle East and North Africa, his signing may open new marketing opportunities, enhance merchandise sales, and attract a broader television audience for Celtic’s matches. Celtic supporters have already begun to welcome the newcomer, with many expressing optimism on social media platforms. Fans are eager to see how his style – characterised by quick dribbling, intelligent off‑the‑ball movement, and an eye for creating chances – will blend with the existing squad, which includes seasoned veterans and promising young talents.
Looking ahead, the club’s short‑term objectives revolve around navigating the Champions League play‑off successfully, securing a spot in the group stage, and maintaining momentum in the domestic league. Hassan’s integration into the first team will be closely monitored during pre‑season friendlies and early competitive fixtures, where his adaptability and chemistry with teammates will be assessed.
If he can replicate the form that earned him a place in Egypt’s national team and impressed scouts during the World Cup, Hassan could become a key figure in Celtic’s pursuit of silverware this season. His journey from the streets of Egypt to the historic Celtic Park illustrates the global nature of modern football and underscores the club’s ambition to attract talent from diverse backgrounds. In summary, Celtic’s acquisition of Haissem Hassan represents a calculated investment aimed at strengthening the squad ahead of a decisive Champions League tie, while also expanding the club’s brand reach. The four‑year contract, with a potential fifth‑year extension, provides stability for both player and club.
As the registration deadline approaches, all eyes will be on whether Hassan can be listed in time to feature in the upcoming play‑off, and how quickly he can adapt to the pace and physicality of Scottish football. The upcoming weeks will reveal whether this high‑profile signing fulfills the expectations set by the management, the fans, and the player himself.