Celtic have confirmed the acquisition of Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan from Spanish side Real Oviedo in what is reported to be a deal worth up to £9 million. The 24‑year‑old international completed his medical examination in London and has signed a four‑year contract, with the club retaining an option to extend the agreement by an additional twelve months should they wish.
The two clubs have settled on an initial transfer fee of roughly £6 million, with a further £3 million in performance‑related add‑ons. A substantial portion of those conditional payments is tied to Celtic’s progress in the Champions League, specifically the club’s aim to reach the group‑stage phase later this month. Because the paperwork has been filed promptly, Hassan is now eligible to be registered in time for Celtic’s upcoming Champions League play‑off tie 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. Speaking to the club’s media outlet, Hassan expressed his enthusiasm for the move: “I’m incredibly grateful to be here and very happy. Celtic is a massive club. Growing up, I always saw Celtic in the Champions League and watched the big‑name players.
I can’t wait to get on the pitch with the lads.” He added, “At 24, it feels like the right moment to leave Spain after six years. With Celtic’s history, the great players, the passionate fans and the electric atmosphere, I think this is the perfect time for me.” Hassan concluded, “I know I’m joining the biggest club in Scotland and I’m eager to take the next step in my career.” Hassan’s reputation was bolstered by his performances at this summer’s World Cup, where he impressed on the international stage.
Celtic have been tracking him for some time and identified him as a long‑term target, especially given their desire for a left‑footed player capable of operating on the right wing during this transfer window. During the 2023‑24 season with Real Oviedo, Hassan featured in 38 matches, primarily on the right flank, and supplied three assists from his preferred position. His pace, technical ability and willingness to take on defenders made him a valuable asset for the Spanish side and caught the eye of several clubs across Europe. The Egyptian winger becomes Celtic’s third summer addition, following the signings of forwards Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh.
Both newcomers are expected to provide depth and competition for places as the club prepares for a demanding schedule that includes domestic league fixtures, cup competitions and the Champions League campaign. 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 continued, “He has the ability and experience to thrive at a high level both domestically and internationally. I know he is excited about being with us and I am confident our fans will love the energy and attacking intent he brings to matches.
I hope he will become a very important member of our squad going forward.” Celtic’s ambition this season is to re‑establish themselves among Europe’s elite, and the addition of Hassan is seen as a strategic move to enhance their attacking options. His left‑footed delivery from the right wing can stretch opposition defences, create crossing opportunities and add a different dimension to the team’s forward play. Moreover, his experience in Spanish football, combined with his recent exposure on the world stage, provides a blend of technical skill and mental resilience that O’Neill believes will be valuable in high‑pressure matches. Fans have already begun to speculate about how Hassan will fit into the existing tactical setup.
Some anticipate that he could partner with the club’s senior forwards, offering width and cutting‑in runs that open space for strikers to exploit. Others see him as a potential impact substitute, capable of changing the tempo of a game with his speed and directness. Regardless of his exact role, the consensus is that his arrival signals Celtic’s intent to compete aggressively in the Champions League qualifiers and, if successful, to make a strong impression in the group stage. The club’s administration has also highlighted the financial prudence of the deal.
By structuring the transfer with a lower upfront fee and performance‑linked add‑ons, Celtic mitigate risk while still securing a player they regard as a long‑term asset. Should Hassan help the team reach the Champions League group stage, the additional payments will be triggered, aligning the club’s financial outlay with on‑field success.
In summary, Haissem Hassan’s move to Celtic represents a calculated investment in youthful talent with proven international pedigree. The Egyptian winger’s blend of speed, technical ability and experience in both domestic and international competitions makes him a promising addition to a squad that aims to challenge for titles at home and make a deep run in Europe.
With the registration deadline looming, all eyes will be on whether he can be included in the squad for the upcoming play‑off against LASK Linz, a match that could set the tone for his Celtic career and the club’s European aspirations.