Uncover the Inside Story of Alex Oxlade Chamberlain's Potential Move to Celtic: From Salary Negotiations to Deal Timeline
The Rumor Mill: A Star's Return to the Pitch?
The football world is abuzz with the possibility of Alex Oxlade Chamberlain returning to the game, and this time, he might be heading to Celtic Park. With talks between the player and Martin O'Neill, Celtic's manager, gaining momentum, here's a deep dive into what you need to know about this potential transfer.
A Star's Journey: Who is Alex Oxlade Chamberlain?
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain, a 32-year-old midfielder, has had a glittering career so far. He's lifted three FA Cups with Arsenal and even claimed the Champions League, Premier League, and EFL Cup during his time at Liverpool. His journey continued with a Turkish Cup win with Besiktas in 2024, before he bid farewell to Istanbul last summer. Chamberlain also boasts an impressive 35 England caps under his belt.
The Long Wait: When Did He Last Play?
Oxlade Chamberlain has faced a long wait to return to action. His last competitive game was on May 11, 2025, when Besiktas faced Adana Demirspor. Since then, he's been out of the game, but that doesn't mean he's been idle.
Back to Arsenal? What's Next for Oxlade Chamberlain?
While out of the game, Mikel Arteta, his former Arsenal manager, welcomed Oxlade Chamberlain to train with the club's U21 side. There are reports that Arsenal might offer him a short-term deal, and Arteta has praised his character and potential impact on the team.
Martin O'Neill's Perspective: A Potential Celtic Signing?
Martin O'Neill, the Celtic boss, has revealed that he's held talks with the player. Speaking to Sky Sports, O'Neill expressed astonishment that Chamberlain hadn't been signed earlier, highlighting his experience and the difficulties he faced in Turkey. O'Neill believes Chamberlain could be a great addition to the team, and the salary won't be a barrier.
Oxlade Chamberlain's Priorities: Game Time and Family
The player has made it clear that his next move is driven by two priorities: game time and being close to his family. He's expressed the challenges of being away from his family for extended periods, and he's eager to play and stay fit.
The Salary Debate: How Much Will It Cost Celtic?
Oxlade Chamberlain is known for commanding big money, earning £2.2m per season at Besiktas and receiving a £1.5m payoff to tear up his contract last summer. However, Martin O'Neill insists that the salary won't be an issue, as he's spoken to the player and is confident a deal can be reached.
The Timeline: When Could He Arrive at Celtic Park?
Celtic is trying to rush the deal through before Thursday's Europa League squad deadline. The cut-off for the midfielder to face Stuttgart is Thursday night, just two weeks out from the first leg at Parkhead on February 19. This timeline adds a sense of urgency to the negotiations.
The Final Word: A Controversial Move?
As the negotiations progress, the question remains: will Alex Oxlade Chamberlain make the move to Celtic? The salary, deal timeline, and Chamberlain's priorities all play a role in this potential transfer. What do you think? Is this a move that could benefit Celtic, or is it a controversial decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
