Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has reportedly bid farewell to Arsenal’s first-team squad as he closes in on a move to Celtic, according to Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph.
Despite bringing in five additions during the January transfer window, Martin O’Neill was still eager to add further quality and depth for the crucial run-in, and the experienced midfielder now looks set to arrive as a marquee addition after the deadline.
Celtic remain firmly in the Scottish Premiership title fight alongside Hearts and Rangers, while also preparing for a pivotal Europa League playoff clash against Stuttgart later this month.
Oxlade-Chamberlain keeping fit at Arsenal
The 32-year-old has been a free agent since leaving Turkish side Besiktas by mutual consent in August. In recent weeks, Arsenal have allowed their former player to train at London Colney to maintain his fitness.
O’Neill previously revealed that Oxlade-Chamberlain was “very excited” by discussions over a potential move, though the Celtic boss felt the player might prefer to stay closer to London.
However, Joseph now reports that the former Liverpool man has said his goodbyes at Arsenal’s training base, signalling that a switch to Glasgow is now imminent.
Fabrizio Romano has also indicated that Oxlade-Chamberlain is expected in Glasgow on Friday to complete a deal running until the end of the season, with an option to extend.
A solution to midfield concerns
Celtic’s interest in players such as Tiemoue Bakayoko highlighted O’Neill’s desire to strengthen centrally. In opting for Oxlade-Chamberlain, the manager appears to have chosen versatility alongside experience.
While capable of operating in central midfield, the Englishman can also feature in wider roles, offering tactical flexibility during a demanding fixture schedule.
That adaptability could prove vital as Celtic juggle domestic ambitions with European commitments in the months ahead.
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