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Celtic in transfer twist as star midfielder could make surprise return
Tom Weber
- Updated: 20 Jan 2026 06:38 GMT
- 4 min read
News
RB Leipzig are exploring a deal for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels, who could make an unexpected return to the Bundesliga this month, according to German media.
The Belgium international has been playing at Parkhead since leaving Augsburg in a €13 million deal in the summer of 2024. He quickly established himself as a key player for Celtic, making 52 appearances in his first season, in which he scored 10 goals and provided 13 assists.
This season, too, Engels has been impactful, even if his performance levels haven't reached the heights of last term. He has contributed to nine goals so far in 2025/26. However, according to Sky Germany, the 22-year-old's time in Glasgow could be cut short this month.
Current ETV
Arne Engels
M (C)
Celtic
Arne Engels
M (C)
Celtic
ETV Range
€11.1M - €13.5M
That is because Engels has emerged as one of three midfield targets for RB Leipzig. Although the plan of the Bundesliga side is to bring in a player in the summer, the report claims that a winter move can't be ruled out.
Leipzig have just lost veteran midfielder Kevin Kampl, who has retired from football after the tragic death of his brother, while Xaver Schlager is expected to run down his contract and leave on a free transfer this summer.
Leipzig want Engels
With the above in mind, Leipzig have already begun formulating a transfer plan for the midfield. Their top target for the summer is Borussia Monchengladbach star Rocco Reitz, but this deal could be complicated.
Reitz is a boyhood Gladbach supporter and fan favourite. Joining Germany's most disliked club would tarnish his reputation and strain his close bond with the fanbase. He would also be quite expensive due to a release clause that ranges between €25 million and €28m.
Leipzig are therefore exploring alternatives. Engels is one of two other names under consideration, and he would likely be the most attainable. The other player is Ardon Jashari, who only joined AC Milan for a sizeable €36m after a months-long saga in the summer.
But it is not just Leipzig who are keen on Engels. He has also received "many enquiries" from other, unnamed suitors, hence the belief that a surprise January exit is possible.
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