Celtic is facing a significant decision regarding their star midfielder, Arne Engels, as the outcome of the title race may influence his future with the club. Former Barcelona-left-back-good-fit-for-carrick/”>Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Engels’ consistent performances in Glasgow have increased the likelihood of a summer transfer.
Celtic Faces Summer Decision as Engels Approaches Exit
Brown noted that the financial landscape of Scottish football makes it challenging for clubs to decline substantial offers, emphasizing that Celtic typically accepts large bids when they arise. He highlighted that scouts from Nottingham Forest and other clubs are closely monitoring Engels during the final matches of the season, preparing for potential formal offers this summer.
Nottingham Forest previously put £25 million on the table on deadline day in February, a bid Celtic rejected as they were unwilling to part with their key player mid-season. According to Brown, winning the Premiership is crucial; securing Champions League football would enable Celtic to resist even aggressive offers. Without this qualification, he believes it will be nearly impossible to retain Engels if higher-level clubs come calling.
“It’s difficult for Celtic to keep hold of their best players,” Brown mentioned to Football Insider.
“Given the current state of the game in Scotland, if a significant offer comes in for a player, it’s likely to be accepted due to their financial needs.”
“A player performing well for Celtic will invariably attract interest,” he added.
“With Engels, it’s expected there will be interest, and clubs will carefully observe his performance in the coming weeks.”
“Those interested clubs, including Nottingham Forest, will send scouts to gather in-depth information about him,” Brown explained. “Forest’s £25 million offer demonstrates their strong interest, which is unlikely to fade quickly.”
“If Celtic fails to win the league, it will be challenging to keep him. The key right now is to win the league and secure a spot in the Champions League.”
“If they don’t achieve that, other clubs can offer him opportunities that may be hard to turn down.”
As of late April 2026, Celtic sits second in the Premiership with 70 points, trailing leaders Hearts. While the title remains attainable, it is not guaranteed. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund has entered the competition alongside Forest and Lazio for Engels, with sources indicating that the player is open to the prospect of playing at a top European club.
Will Losing the Title Ensure Engels Leaves Celtic This Summer?