Celtic Football Club have confirmed the acquisition of Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan from Spanish side Real Oviedo, finalising what is believed to be a deal worth around £9 million. The 24‑year‑old international completed his medical examination in London and has signed a four‑year contract, with the club retaining the option to extend the agreement by an additional twelve months should they wish. The transfer agreement stipulates an upfront fee of roughly £6 million, with further payments of up to £3 million tied to performance‑related add‑ons.
A substantial portion of those conditional bonuses is linked directly to Celtic’s progress in the Champions League – specifically, the club will trigger a payment if it advances to the group stage later this month. Because the paperwork has now been lodged, there is sufficient time for Hassan to be registered before Celtic’s Champions League play‑off against Austrian side LASK Linz, scheduled for next week. The registration deadline is Thursday, and the club is permitted to add two more players to the squad by the following Tuesday, giving them a narrow window to finalise the roster.
In a press interview with Celtic’s media team, Hassan expressed his enthusiasm about the move: “I’m incredibly grateful to be here and genuinely thrilled. Celtic is a massive club – growing up I always saw them in the Champions League, playing against some of the biggest names in football. I can’t wait to step onto the pitch with my new teammates.” He continued, noting the timing of the transfer: “At 24, I feel it’s the right moment to leave Spain after six years. Celtic’s rich history, the passionate supporters, and the electric atmosphere make this the perfect stage for the next chapter of my career.” Hassan added that he recognises the stature of his new employer: “I know I’m joining the biggest club in Scotland, and I’m eager to take this next step and contribute to the team’s success.” Hassan’s arrival follows an impressive showing at this summer’s World Cup, where he caught the eye of scouts from several European clubs.
Celtic have been targeting a left‑footed player capable of operating on the right wing for some time, and Hassan fits that profile perfectly. During the 2023‑24 season with Real Oviedo, he featured in 38 matches, delivering three assists from his preferred position on the flank and demonstrating a blend of pace, technical ability, and an eye for goal.
He becomes Celtic’s third summer signing, joining newly‑arrived forwards Camilo Duran and Kasper Høgh, and adds depth to a squad that is looking to compete on multiple fronts – domestically in the Scottish Premiership and in Europe’s premier club competition. Manager Martin O’Neill praised the deal, saying, “We are delighted to bring Haissem to Celtic.
The club has done an excellent job securing a player of his calibre, especially with interest from other teams. He possesses the talent and experience to thrive both in domestic matches and on the European stage.” O’Neill added, “His energy, attacking mindset and willingness to take on defenders will be a huge asset for us. I’m confident our fans will love the dynamism he brings, and I expect him to become a key member of the squad in the coming seasons.” The signing also reflects Celtic’s broader strategy of blending home‑grown talent with promising international players to maintain their dominance in Scotland while aiming to make a deeper run in the Champions League.
By adding a versatile winger like Hassan, the club not only strengthens its options on the right side but also introduces a player with a proven record of performing under pressure, as evidenced by his World Cup appearances and consistent displays in Spain’s Segunda División. Looking ahead, Celtic will aim to register Hassan in time for the LASK Linz play‑off, hoping his fresh impetus will help the team secure a place in the Champions League group stage. If successful, the club will benefit not only from the financial rewards of participation but also from the added prestige of competing against Europe’s elite – a goal that aligns perfectly with Hassan’s own ambitions of playing at the highest level.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for both player and club as they prepare for what could be a defining moment in Celtic’s season and Hassan’s career.