Celtic turn down West Ham bid for Engels, eye Johnston

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has confirmed significant transfer interest from English clubs in two of his key players, midfielder Arne Engels and defender Alistair Johnston, just days before the Scottish Premiership season begins. The club has rejected an approach from West Ham United for Engels, while Everton has made contact regarding Johnston.

Speaking to the media on July 31, 2026, ahead of Celtic’s league opener against Dundee FC on Monday, August 3, O’Neill stated that West Ham’s bid for the 22-year-old Belgian midfielder did not come close to the club’s valuation. He also confirmed that Everton manager David Moyes had contacted him last week to express interest in Johnston, the 27-year-old Canadian international right-back, though no formal bid has been submitted for the defender.

Engels, who joined Celtic from Augsburg in 2024, has been a standout performer, contributing 38 goal involvements in league play and creating 140 chances across all competitions. His form previously attracted a rejected bid worth up to 25 million pounds from Nottingham Forest during the winter transfer window. O’Neill indicated the club’s stance on his value remains firm, leaving a significant...