Celtic complete €10.5m signing of World Cup star

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Tom Weber | Writer

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

Celtic have officially announced the signing of Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan.

The Egypt international has become the Hoops' third recruit of this summer transfer window after Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh. One of the most prolific dribblers in LaLiga last season, Hassan is coming off an impressive World Cup, and his signing will be regarded as quite the coup.

The 24-year-old had interest from various clubs, but Celtic were on the case early on and, despite discussions with Real Oviedo proving difficult, they ultimately managed to agree a €10.5 million deal, with a significant chunk of that figure consisting of potential add-ons.

The French-born right-winger has signed a four-year contract, with Celtic hopeful that he will be fit and ready to go for their Champions League playoff against LASK next week.

It is understood that some of the bonuses in this deal will be triggered if the Parkhead club reach the league phase of the Champions League. Celtic are keen to complete more deals before next week's clash with the Austrian champions.

Hassan joins Celtic

Earlier on Wednesday, Celtic made a breakthrough in talks with Bundesliga side SC Paderborn over a deal for midfielder Mika Baur, who looks to be the Glasgow giants' replacement for the in-demand Arne Engels.

Celtic have agreed to pay €8m for the 22-year-old German, which is a club-record sale for Paderborn. This deal is also likely to be announced before the week is out.

As for Hassan, he is over the moon to be joining Celtic. “It is a great moment and a real honour for me to join Celtic, a phenomenal club with such a brilliant history and wonderful supporters," the Egyptian said.

"I am really looking forward to getting to know all my team-mates and facing the challenges we have ahead of us. I want to play my part in bringing success to our fans."

Celtic boss Martin O'Neill said: "We are delighted to bring Haissem to Celtic and I think the club has done really well to secure a player of such quality, with a number of other clubs interested in him.

"He is someone who I think has the ability and experience to do very well for us, performing at a high level in domestic and international football.

"I know he is excited about being with us and I am sure our fans will enjoy the energy and attacking intent which Haissem will bring to matches. I hope he will become a very important member of our squad going forward."