Celtic are pursuing a deal to sign Adrian Blake, the 20-year-old winger currently at FC Utrecht, according to sources close to the Scottish club. The move is part of a broader effort by manager Martin O’Neill to strengthen the squad ahead of the new season, with several signings expected in the coming week.
Pre-season training is already underway for Celtic, making the swift addition of new players a priority for O’Neill to allow for integration and tactical familiarisation. Sources indicate the manager has stressed the need for reinforcements. Blake has emerged as a potential option to add pace and creativity to Celtic’s wide attacking areas.
Blake currently has one year remaining on his contract with Utrecht, who value the player at approximately £2.5 million. This contractual situation could facilitate negotiations, potentially allowing Celtic to secure his signature without a prohibitive transfer fee, though they will need to meet or negotiate Utrecht’s valuation.
Celtic are simultaneously pursuing Egypt midfielder Haissem Hassan, who impressed at the recent World Cup playing alongside Mohamed Salah. The club remains in contact with Hassan’s representatives despite reported interest from clubs in Europe’s top five leagues, demonstrating their ambition to compete for talented players. The prospect of Champions League football is seen as a significant advantage in attracting players of Hassan’s calibre.
Adding players like Blake and Hassan would bolster Celtic’s squad as they aim to maintain their dominance in Scotland and make a competitive impact in European competitions. Further movement is anticipated as Celtic seeks to efficiently conclude their summer transfer business.
