Exclusive: Celtic forced into Haissem Hassan decision

Exclusive

Steve Kay | Editor

Celtic’s hopes of landing Egypt international Haissem Hassan appear to hinge on the Glasgow giants matching the release clause of the Real Oviedo star imminently.

FootballTransfers can confirm that the Parkhead outfit have shown an interest in Hassan, yet equally the agent of the 24-year-old is seeking a quick transfer solution for his player and is sounding out interest from Ligue 1 in an attempt to find the winger a new club.

The attacker, who was compared to Mohamed Salah in his younger days, has a release clause worth around £10 million (€12m), which has dropped from £16m (€19m) due to Oviedo’s relegation from Spain’s top-flight.

Celtic have made an initial bid for the player, but it failed to match this figure and was rejected by the Spaniards, who expect Hassan’s exit clause to be met in full.

This has prompted Hassan’s agent to seek potential buyers in France for the Paris-born player, sources have told FootballTransfers.

Among the French top-flight clubs interested in the World Cup star are Paris FC, though a move to Liam Rosenior’s new club is thought to be only an outside possibility at present.

Celtic forced into decision

The development is alarming for Celtic, who have sought to sign Hassan at a knockdown price. It has been claimed that the Hoops' offer was just £3.4m (€5m), though this figure has not been confirmed. Nevertheless, this is a fraction of what the Segunda Division club believe their player to be worth.

Indeed, Celtic’s offer has been enough to prompt a response from new Oviedo sporting director David Fernandez, who issued a firm message on the Egypt star’s future.

Speaking to the media, he said: “Haissem Hassan is owned by Oviedo. We will have a firm policy for bringing in players and managing departures.”

The Spanish club are thought to be eager to retain the wide man as they attempt to win promotion back to the top flight, with COPE insisting that any bid below his release clause will be rejected.

Given the reputation of Celtic’s board to run a tight transfer policy, it’s doubtful that the Glasgow side will come close to Oviedo’s expectations.

Hassan delivered three assists last season and featured twice for Egypt at the World Cup.