If a recent report from Football Scotland is believed to be true, Celtic have firm interest in versatile Augsburg star Arne Engels. But they must overcome two hurdles to land the youngster before the window is slammed shut at 11 pm on Friday, August 30.
The 20-year-old Belgium youth international progressed through the academy ranks of Club Brugge back in his homeland. But he only featured for their reserve side Club NXT before plying his trades to Germany. Augsburg roped him in for a minuscule €100k fee (as cited by Transfermarket) in January 2023 and the youngster soon secured a starting status exhibiting his flexibility in various roles.
Predominantly a central midfielder, Engels has also featured from the flanks. He even deputized as a fullback on a few occasions, but the Hoops primarily view him as Matt O’Riley’s successor. The Danish ace is still featuring for them in the middle of the park, however, he is expected to part ways before the deadline amid multiple bids from Atalanta and other European hotshots.
Why Celtic Might Have To Wait Before Striking A Deal For Engels
The Celts have set a valuation of around £25m for their prized asset and they must sell him to buy Engels having spent £9.5m and £3.5m respectively to snap up Adam Idah and Paulo Bernardo on permanent deals. The Belgian would cost around £10m after appearing more than 50 times for the Bundesliga outfit over the past one-and-a-half seasons and Rodgers, therefore, must sanction the sale first to balance the books.
Meanwhile, Augsburg are sweating over the future of their star playmaker Ruben Vargas. The Switzerland international has emerged as a summer target for Fiorentina and the potential egress of both their midfielders would be catastrophic for Fuggerstädter. The Bavaria outfit might not sanction Engels’ transfer unless they keep hold of Vargas or tie down able alternatives in the due course of time.
The Red Devils prospect is known for his set-piece traits, playing long balls and shooting from distance. He is combative in midfield and aggressive with his challenges. Despite some limitations in the passing game, Engels’ all-round traits would bolster the Bhoys in the centre of the pitch.
Unlike the project signings like Odin Thiago Holm or Kwon Hyeok-kyu who joined Hibernian on a season-long loan, the Augsburg prospect is tipped to challenge for a regular role given his profile and promises. The next few days would be crucial for Celtic as they have moved in a slow but steady manner in the business window.
