Celtic Brace for Engels Summer Exit Amid Forest, Leipzig Interest

Celtic are bracing for the summer departure of midfielder Arne Engels, the 22-year-old Belgian international who has attracted bids from Nottingham Forest and interest from RB Leipzig and other European clubs.

The Scottish Premiership contenders rejected multiple offers for Engels in January, including a £25 million proposal from Forest on deadline day. Manager Martin O'Neill expressed relief at the decision, stating, "For here that is an awful lot of money. I personally am delighted the board turned it down. It was really tempting. It has come at a very late stage I must admit. So great credit to them."

Engels joined Celtic from Augsburg in 2024 for a club-record £11 million fee. Since arriving, the dynamic playmaker has made nearly 100 appearances, contributing 15 goals and 20 assists across competitions. He helped the team secure the Premiership and Premier Sports Cup in his debut season and has added 12 goal involvements this term despite a nine-week absence due to a thigh injury. Recently returned, he has started the last three matches as Celtic chase the title, currently trailing leaders Hearts by three points.

Reports indicate a move away from Parkhead is now planned once...