Celtic snap up World Cup eye-catcher in multi-million pound deal as belated transfer spree beckons

The 24-year-old, who impressed during the recent World Cup, has penned a four-year contract with the option of a further year in a deal reportedly worth £6million plus a further £3m add-ons.

The arrival of the pacy wide man, who can play on either flank, has been welcomed by Celtic manager Martin O'Neill, who missed the weekend win over Kilmarnock while recovering from a minor procedure.

“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 said.

“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."

Hassan joined Oviedo from Villarreal in 2024 and helped the club secure promotion to La Liga during his first season only to suffer relegation back to the Segunda Division after one year in the Spanish top flight.

He caught the eye with his performances for Egypt in the World Cup, particularly during the last 16 meeting with defending world champions Argentina, although his side were ultimately eliminated following a 3-2 defeat.

"It is a great moment and a real honour for me to join Celtic, a phenomenal club with such a brilliant history and wonderful supporters," he told the Celtic website.

"When I heard about Celtic being interested in me, I had to get here and be part of the club.

"I am really looking forward to getting to know all my team-mates and facing the challenges we have ahead of us. I want to play my part in bringing success to our fans."

Celtic could be set for a belated transfer spree after long-time target Mika Baur was reportedly given permission to hold transfer talks.

The Hoops have been linked with the 22-year-old throughout the summer but a transfer fee was seen to be the only stumbling block.

The attacking midfielder is entering the final season of his contract with newly promoted Bundesliga club Paderborn, who he joined from Freiburg in 2024.

Germany under-21 international Baur had already made more than 60 league appearances for Freiburg’s second team as a teenager and has made more than 40 first-team appearances for Paderborn.

Reports have also linked Celtic with Chelsea left-back Landon Emenalo. According to Sky Sports, the 18-year-old is one of a number of potential loan targets the Scottish champions are assessing to provide cover for Kieran Tierney.