Celtic are reportedly closing in on the most significant free-agent signing in recent Scottish football history. Negotiations with former Liverpool and Arsenal playmaker Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have reached an advanced stage, with Parkhead officials working around the clock to secure his signature within the next 24 hours.
While the transfer window is closed, the “Ox” remains a free agent following his departure from Besiktas. However, a major deadline is looming that has forced Celtic’s hand: the UEFA Europa League squad registration.
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Martin O’Neill is desperate to have the 32-year-old available for the upcoming knockout tie against VfB Stuttgart, with the first leg scheduled for February 19th at Celtic Park. Under UEFA regulations, clubs must submit their final squad lists by midnight on Thursday, February 5th.
If the deal isn’t “over the line” by then, Oxlade-Chamberlain would be ineligible for European competition, limiting him to domestic duties only. O’Neill is believed to see the England international’s vast Champions League experience as the missing ingredient for a deep run in the Europa League.
“Someone of that sort of experience would be great. It may still happen because he is out of contract, and those discussions have been positive.” — Martin O’Neill on Sky Sports
From London Colney to the East End
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been keeping fit at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground since November. While reports suggested he preferred to stay in London following the birth of his second child, it is understood that the chance to join a title-chasing Celtic side—and a glowing recommendation from former teammate Joe Hart—has swayed his decision.
If signed by Thursday morning, “The Ox” could be fast-tracked into the squad for this weekend’s Scottish Cup clash against Dundee. Following the frustration of the midweek postponement against Aberdeen due to a waterlogged pitch, O’Neill is keen to inject fresh energy into a midfield that has occasionally lacked a clinical final ball.
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Signing a player of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s pedigree, even at 32, sends a massive message to the blue side of Glasgow. With Rangers closing the gap to three points tonight, Celtic need “big game” players. If O’Neill can get this done before the UEFA deadline, it could be the catalyst that secures both the Premiership title and European progression.
Next Step: Will the Ox be registered in time? We’ll have all the breaking news as the Thursday midnight deadline approaches!
Co-Founder of Fitba Focus and MMA UK. A lifelong Rangers fan and former player, he combines over a decade of sports media experience with a deep-seated passion for the Scottish game. From the Ibrox stands to the lower-league terraces, Frankie is dedicated to providing honest, fan-led analysis of the full Scottish pyramid.
