Celtic are bracing for potential midfield departures this summer and reports from Italy suggest they have identified a replacement should Arne Engels seal a move to AS Roma. According to Football Italia, the Scottish champions are monitoring Torino star Gvidas Gineitis as a ready-made alternative. Meanwhile, the Granata are themselves lining up a replacement in the form of striker Gill, as the transfer carousel begins to spin.
Celtic's Midfield Conundrum
The Scottish Premiership winners are preparing for another title defence but could face a reshuffle in the engine room. Arne Engels, the Belgian midfielder, has attracted strong interest from Serie A side AS Roma, who are keen to bolster their squad under new management. While Celtic have already secured the experience of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on a new one-year contract, they are not resting on their laurels. The potential departure of Engels—a key creative force—would leave a significant void, prompting the club to identify Gvidas Gineitis as a primary target.
The 22-year-old Lithuanian international has impressed in Serie A with his combative style and eye for a pass, making him an attractive proposition for Celtic's high-intensity system. His ability to operate as a box-to-box midfielder or in a deeper playmaking role offers the versatility that manager Brendan Rodgers values.
Gineitis: The Lithuanian Midfielder on the Rise
Gvidas Gineitis has been a revelation since breaking into Torino's first team. Having joined from FK Žalgiris in 2023, the midfielder has become a mainstay in Ivan Jurić's setup, earning plaudits for his tenacity and technical ability. With over 60 appearances in Serie A, Gineitis has developed a reputation as one of the league's most promising young midfielders. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several clubs across Europe monitoring his situation.
For Celtic, Gineitis represents a blend of immediate impact and long-term potential. His wage demands are understood to be within the Bhoys' structure, and Torino could be tempted by a bid in the region of €15 million—funds that would help them reinvest in their own squad.
Roma's Pursuit of Engels and Torino's Counter-Move
The driving force behind this transfer triangle is AS Roma's determination to land Arne Engels. The Giallorossi see the Belgian as a vital addition to their midfield, especially after missing out on other targets. If a deal is struck—likely in the €20 million range—Celtic will move swiftly for Gineitis. That would leave Torino needing a replacement, and reports indicate they have already identified Gill as a potential successor.
Details on Gill remain scarce, but the forward is described as a quick, versatile attacker who can operate across the frontline. Torino's scouting department has a strong track record of unearthing gems from lesser-known markets, and Gill could be the next low-cost, high-reward signing. Should the chain reaction occur, all three clubs could emerge satisfied from the summer window.
Quick Facts
Celtic's current targets: Gvidas Gineitis (Torino), Camilo Duran (Qarabag, per separate reports).
Arne Engels' potential destination: AS Roma.
Torino's contingency plan: Sign forward Gill if Gineitis leaves.
Oxlade-Chamberlain status: New one-year deal with Celtic confirmed.
Key Takeaways
- Celtic are preparing for life after Arne Engels by targeting Gvidas Gineitis, a rising star at Torino.
- AS Roma's pursuit of Engels could trigger a multi-club transfer chain involving the Scottish and Italian sides.
- Torino have already lined up an unknown striker named Gill to fill the potential void left by Gineitis.
- The deal hinges on Engels' move to Roma, but all parties appear willing to negotiate for the right price.
- Celtic could secure a quality replacement while making a profit if the numbers align, continuing their smart recruitment strategy.
