Celtic in Talks to Sign Ex-Arsenal and Liverpool Star

Celtic Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain talks gather pace as the Scottish champions push to land the former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder on a free transfer.

Celtic are accelerating negotiations to sign former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, with talks advancing over a potential free transfer ahead of key European deadlines.

The 32-year-old has been without a club since leaving Beşiktaş last summer and has emerged as a prime short-term target as Celtic look to inject experience and pedigree into their midfield.

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Discussions have intensified, and Celtic increasingly believe they can strike a deal in time to register Oxlade-Chamberlain for their Europa League squad.

Manager Martin O’Neill confirmed contact with the player this week and acknowledged that talks continue as the club pursues reinforcements before the window shuts. Negotiations must move swiftly for a medical to take place.

However, the deal remains unfinished.

Contract talks remain the sticking point

Celtic proposed a short-term contract running until the end of the season, but Oxlade-Chamberlain’s camp pushes for an option to extend, creating a temporary impasse.

The delay has frustrated sections of the fanbase, though the club still expects to reach a compromise.

Oxlade-Chamberlain would arrive with elite-level experience.

He broke through at Southampton before joining Arsenal in 2011, where he made over 130 appearances and won three FA Cups. Liverpool signed him for £35m in 2017, and he lifted both the Champions League and Premier League despite persistent injury setbacks.

Now a free agent, Celtic see him as a low-risk opportunity to add proven quality and versatility across midfield and wide areas.

Alternatives lined up if talks collapse.

Celtic refuse to place all their eggs in one basket. The club has also targeted Tiemoué Bakayoko as a fallback option if negotiations with Oxlade-Chamberlain stall.

Still, sources insist the former England international remains the priority.

For Oxlade-Chamberlain, a move to Celtic Park offers a reset in a demanding but passionate environment — and a chance to reignite his career with regular football.

With the clock ticking toward UEFA registration deadlines, Celtic must secure a decisive breakthrough soon.

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