Haissem Hassan is reportedly edging closer to completing a transfer to Celtic as negotiations over a summer move continue to gather pace.
The Real Oviedo winger has long been admired by the Scottish champions, with their interest dating back to before his standout performances for Egypt at the World Cup. His displays on the international stage only increased attention around the 24-year-old, raising the prospect of greater competition for his signature.
Earlier reports suggested Oviedo had rejected an opening bid from Celtic worth around £3.4 million, with the Spanish club believed to be holding out for a fee closer to Hassan’s £10 million release clause, which dropped from £14 million following their relegation from La Liga.
According to Spanish publication La Nueva España, however, a switch to the Hoops is now advancing.
The report states that Celtic have consistently been viewed as Hassan’s preferred destination and that discussions between the clubs have accelerated over recent days, bringing the deal significantly closer.
While some aspects of the transfer still require to be resolved, there is growing confidence that an agreement could be finalised before long.
Speaking earlier this summer, Hassan acknowledged that his future at Oviedo remained uncertain.
He said: “I haven’t spoken to anyone at Oviedo yet, but I have one year left on my contract and nobody is untouchable at a club like this.
“Football is a business and, at my age, I think I can bring in some money for the club.
“But I don’t know what will happen.
“It was a learning season for me with Real Oviedo in La Liga and we’ve all made mistakes.
“It was a difficult season – you saw an Oviedo team that wasn’t used to this level, but we didn’t imagine it would be this tough.
“On a personal level? I’ve had my ups and downs, good times and not-so-good times. So I needed a break after the season both physically and mentally.
“I’m very happy in Oviedo. They’ve always treated me well and I’ve experienced the best time of my career here.
“Oviedo will always be a part of my heart, but we’ll see what happens.
“I don’t know if I’ll stay or not.”
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