According to a recent transfer update from Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, Celtic has expressed interest in Haissem Hassan ahead of a potential move this summer. The winger from Real Oviedo has only a year remaining on his contract at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere, prompting the relegated Spanish club to consider a transfer instead of letting him leave for free next year.
Born in Paris, the 24-year-old former French youth international switched his allegiance to Egypt in March. His standout performance in the World Cup, especially against Argentina, likely caught the attention of Celtic, who are eager to bolster their attack after several disappointing signings in past transfer windows.
Emergence In Spain After Leaving France
Hassan developed through the ranks at Porte de Bagnolet, Paris FC, and Châteauroux before breaking into the first team at Châteauroux in Ligue 2. In 2020, Villarreal signed him, assigning him to their reserve team for the 2020-21 season. He subsequently went on two loan spells with CD Mirandés and Sporting Gijón in the lower tiers of Spanish football. Due to limited first-team opportunities at Estadio de la Cerámica, Villarreal authorized a low-profile transfer to Oviedo.
The winger made an immediate impact at Oviedo, contributing 4 goals and 3 assists in 43 league appearances to help the team secure promotion. However, the 2025-26 season was less successful, with the club finishing at the bottom of La Liga. Despite showcasing his impressive dribbling skills and ability to carry the ball forward from the wings, Hassan struggled to make a significant impact, ending the season with only 3 assists in 38 games across all competitions.
Why Celtic Must Secure His Signing
Nonetheless, he has demonstrated the potential to create problems for opposing defenses with his speed and footwork. An explosive winger like Hassan could add much-needed creativity to Celtic’s attack, an aspect that has been lacking since the departure of Nicolas Kuhn. While Yang Hyun-jun had some impactful moments last season, neither James Forrest nor Luke McCowan provides a reliable long-term option. Additionally, Daizen Maeda is expected to leave amid interest from Ipswich Town, and Joel Mvuka has returned to Lorient after a disappointing loan period.
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Hassan, primarily left-footed, excels as an inverted winger on the right, enabling him to cut inside for shooting opportunities or to deliver crosses. While he needs to refine his decision-making and finishing in the final third, acquiring him would offer a significant boost to Celtic amidst fan frustrations regarding the limited transfer activity.