Celtic must make record sale demand amid Arne Engels exit update
Celtic look increasingly likely to lose Arne Engels this summer transfer window.
The midfielder was crucial for the Hoops this campaign as he picked up eight goal contributions in the Scottish Premiership this season.
Engels was subject to interest from Nottingham Forest late in the winter window, and now, more clubs are eyeing the 22-year-old.
According to Sacha Tavolieri on 1 June, the Hoops star wants to take the next step in his career, with several clubs such as AC Milan chasing him.
Now, if Celtic are to part with Engels, the club must demand a record fee for the midfielder.
Celtic must demand over £25m for Arne Engels
Celtic’s current record departure is Matt O’Riley, who departed the Hoops for Brighton and Hove Albion in 2024 for £25million.
Given Engels’ importance to the Hoops, they have to ensure this record is broken if they are to let him go.
| Arne Engels' Scottish Premiership stats this season | Per 90 minutes |
| Goals | 0.22 |
| xG | 0.23 |
| Shots | 1.39 |
| Assists | 0.13 |
| Chances created | 1.88 |
| Successful crosses | 1.30 |
Forest had reportedly bid £25m late in the winter window, and Celtic must ensure that their price tag is not lowered.
If anything, the Hoops are now in a better position to demand further funds after they qualified for the Champions League playoffs.
Keeping Engels is seemingly impossible given the interest. Therefore, Celtic must ensure they bring in as much money as possible to invest in quality replacements.
Who could replace Engels at Celtic?
Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Celtic are readying a move for readying a move for Gyor midfielder Milan Vitalis.
The Hoops have been keeping a close eye on the 24-year-old, who won the Hungarian top-flight title this season with his club.
Celtic have scouted him on multiple occasions, and they see the Hungarian international as someone with real potential.
Vitalis notched nine goals and four assists this season, and the Hoops believe he can make an immediate impact if he were to sign for the club.
Reports have also linked Aberdeen and Rangers to the star in what could be a potential battle for his signature this summer.
However, it remains to be seen if Celtic can sign the midfielder, and if he does come in, if he will be able to replace Engels’ quality ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.