Celtic close in on €10m signing of World Cup hero

21 Aug 2026 18:36 BST | 4 min read

Tom Weber | Writer

Multilingual sports writer who specialises in European football and American soccer.

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Celtic are closing in on a big-money deal to sign Slovan Liberec midfielder Ermin Mahmic, while they are also set to loan Chelsea prospect Landon Emenalo.

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The Bosnia and Herzegovina international was one of the breakout stars of the World Cup this summer. Mahmic scored twice at the tournament, including the decisive goal against Qatar that sent his country to the round of 32.

The 21-year-old attacking midfielder made 31 appearances for Liberec last season, finding the back of the net eight times, while also providing five assists. The possible signing of Mahmic could be a hint that Celtic may yet lose star midfielder Benjamin Nygren this summer.

According to Sky Sports, Celtic are making good progress in discussions with Liberec over a sizeable deal for the Austria-born youngster. It is thought that talks are currently centred around a potential €10 million package.

A breakthrough appears to be imminent, with only the final structure of the deal having to be agreed on. The arrival of Mahmic would take Celtic's spending north of €40m, and they are also still set to pay a fee for a new goalkeeper.

Celtic also closing in on Emenalo deal

Meanwhile, Sky Sports also reports that Celtic are on the verge of finalising the arrival of Chelsea prospect Landon Emenalo, who is expected to fill the void left by Marcelo Saracchi.

Similar to the Mahmic situation, club-to-club discussions are thought to be close to being concluded positively, with Celtic set to loan the teenage left-back without an option or obligation to buy.

Born in Tucson, Emenalo has mostly represented England at the youth level. The 18-year-old is the son of former Nigeria international Michael Emenalo, who previously worked as technical director at Chelsea.

After impressing in pre-season, Emenalo recently picked up a knock, which has delayed his transfer to Celtic. However, it is now thought that his arrival at Parkhead is imminent. In addition to playing at left-back, the teenager can also help out in more central defensive roles.

Emenalo made 14 appearances in Premier League 2 last season, providing three assists. He has yet to make his senior competitive debut, but he has been on the bench for Chelsea a few times.