NafisaExperience often becomes one of the most valuable assets for clubs chasing silverware over the course of a demanding season. While emerging talents bring energy and excitement, seasoned professionals frequently provide the composure, leadership and winning mentality needed during decisive moments.
Celtic’s recent recruitment strategy has reflected that balance, blending youthful potential with players who have competed at the highest levels of European football.
As preparations continue for another busy campaign, attention has increasingly shifted towards which members of last season’s squad will remain part of Martin O’Neill’s plans.
Several contract situations have been under review in recent weeks, with decisions now beginning to emerge as the Scottish champions continue shaping their squad.
One experienced player now appears set to extend his stay in Glasgow.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is reportedly close to signing a new one-year contract with Celtic.
The former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder initially arrived at Parkhead in February on a short-term agreement running until the end of the season after being persuaded to join by Martin O’Neill.
That deal included an option for an extra 12 months, and the 32-year-old has now reportedly reached an agreement to activate that extension.
Oxlade-Chamberlain scored twice across 12 appearances during his first spell with the Hoops, contributing valuable experience as Celtic completed another successful campaign.
According to Sky Sports, the midfielder’s enjoyment of working under O’Neill, together with the manager’s determination to keep him at the club, played a significant role in his decision.
The report adds that Oxlade-Chamberlain is prepared to continue his Celtic career despite attracting interest from several clubs elsewhere in Europe.
Celtic make another contract decision
The latest development follows reports suggesting Celtic have decided against offering Kelechi Iheanacho an extended stay.
The former Manchester City and Leicester City forward joined the Scottish champions on a free transfer last summer and played an important role during the closing stages of the season.
His crucial goals helped O’Neill’s side complete another Premiership and Scottish Cup double.
However, according to The Sun, Celtic have chosen not to trigger the clause allowing them to extend the Nigeria international’s contract.
Iheanacho, now 29, is reportedly attracting attention from a number of clubs competing in Turkey’s top division as he prepares to assess the next step in his career.
With one experienced Premier League winner seemingly staying while another looks set to depart, Celtic’s squad continues to evolve as the club fine-tunes its plans for another campaign filled with domestic and European ambitions.
Nafisa
