Celtic's chances of signing Haissem Hassan revealed by Pete O'Rourke
Celtic's chances of signing Egypt star Haissem Hassan are improving as Real Oviedo prepare to accept a lower offer for his services, sources have told Football Insider.
Hassan is on Celtic's transfer shortlist as it stands after some impressive showings for Egypt at the World Cup.
He helped his country progress to the round of 16 and grabbed a memorable assist against Argentina in midweek before they were dramatically knocked out late on.
Real Oviedo have seen the release clause they inserted into his contract fall from £16million to £10m after they were relegated from La Liga in May.
Hassan could now join Celtic for an even lesser figure, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, with the Spanish club needing to sell as his contract expires in June 2027.
The Hoops reportedly submitted a £3.4m bid for the 24-year-old last week, but are expected to return with a second offer.
Haissem Hassan update hands Celtic encouragement to agree deal
Oviedo sporting director, David Fernandez, recently hinted at being a tough negotiator in a deal for the Egyptian, saying: "Haissem Hassan is owned by Oviedo. We will have a firm policy for bringing in players and managing departures."
Recent reports have claimed that Marseille are also keen on signing Hassan, who registered three assists in 37 La Liga matches last season.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Real Oviedo suffered relegation from La Liga, so they're probably facing a major battle to keep hold of him.
"I think he's only got one year left on his contract, so any big offers for him are probably going to be considered by the Spanish club.
"Maybe his form last season for Oviedo might have a few question marks over it, I don't think he scored a goal for them, but we always have these breakout stars at the World Cup where they do get big money moves away."
Celtic facing hurdles to get Elijah Just deal done
Hassan would arrive at Parkhead to bolster Martin O'Neill's right wing options, with several other attacking signings on his agenda this summer.
Motherwell playmaker Just has been a player of interest to the Hoops for several months after he registered seven goals and assists in 35 Premiership games last season.
They remain keen on a move, but sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Celtic could struggle to sign Just this summer after he shone at the World Cup with New Zealand.
The 26-year-old scored three goals in as many games before the All Whites were knocked out of the competition, with several other European clubs now also tracking his availability as it stands.