Arne Engels is believed to be undergoing a medical ahead of his move to West Ham United, with Celtic manager Martin O’Neill confirming the midfielder is set to leave the Scottish champions.
The Arne Engels West Ham transfer has entered its final stages as the Hammers hope to have their new signing available for Sunday’s Championship opener at Burnley.
West Ham reached a full agreement with Celtic for Engels earlier on Friday, with Florian Plettenberg reporting a £22million fee and a proposed contract running until 2031.
The latest development now puts the Belgium international within sight of completing his move to east London.
Arne Engels West Ham transfer reaches medical stage
Speaking at his press conference before Celtic’s Premier Sports Cup tie against Dundee United, O’Neill provided his clearest indication yet that Engels’ departure is imminent.
The Guardian reported O’Neill’s comments, with the Celtic boss saying: “I would imagine that he’s probably at this minute doing the medical.”
O’Neill also revealed the reason West Ham have pushed to complete the move quickly, saying: “West Ham wanted him to be available for the opening day of the season.”
That would put Engels in contention to be involved when Nuno Espírito Santo’s side begin their Championship campaign at Turf Moor on Sunday.
The 22-year-old’s move has developed significantly in recent days. ReadWestHam reported on Wednesday that West Ham were preparing their biggest offer yet for Engels, after Celtic strengthened their midfield with a move for Mika Baur.
ReadWestHam then reported on Friday that a full £22m agreement had been reached with Celtic, including details of Engels’ proposed contract until 2031.
O’Neill admitted Celtic are disappointed to lose the midfielder but said the opportunity to move to English football was difficult for Engels to turn down.
West Ham must still complete the remaining formalities before the transfer can be announced, but the medical represents the final major stage of a deal that has accelerated rapidly this week.
