Celtic have rejected a reported £14 million bid from Premier League side Nottingham Forest for midfielder Arne Engels, making clear their intention to retain the Belgium international amid frantic deadline‑day transfer activity.
The offer, lodged on Sunday just hours before the close of the January window, was quickly rebuffed by the Scottish champions, who see Engels as a key part of their squad for the run‑in in domestic and European competitions. The 22‑year‑old, who joined Celtic from Augsburg in the summer of 2024 for around £11m, is under contract until at least 2028 and has been a regular starter this season.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has made it clear that the club have no intention of selling Engels this month, with fresh offers already emerging. Sky Sports and other outlets report that Forest have since returned with an improved bid, rising beyond the initial £14m, which has also been turned down.
Despite Forest’s ongoing interest, Celtic appear determined to strengthen rather than weaken their squad ahead of what promises to be a tight challenge across the William Hill Premiership title race, the Scottish Cup and the UEFA Europa League. The club’s deadline‑day business has included the signing of forward Junior Adamu, highlighting their focus on reinforcing key areas rather than cashing in on core players.
Engels’ role this season — contributing goals and creative play from midfield — has made him one of Celtic’s standout performers. Any potential move to the Premier League would suit his ambitions, but for now Celtic’s stance remains firm with multiple bids already dismissed before the window’s close.
