Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Poised for Celtic Switch After Arsenal Training Period
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is scheduled to arrive in Glasgow on Saturday to undergo a medical examination, paving the way for a transfer to Celtic. This move will mark the conclusion of his recent training spell with his former club, Arsenal, where he had been maintaining fitness since becoming a free agent.
From Free Agency to Celtic: A New Chapter
The 32-year-old midfielder has been without a club since his contract with Turkish side Besiktas was terminated in August 2025. During this period, he trained with Arsenal to stay in shape, sparking speculation about a potential short-term deal with the Gunners, especially after they lost Mikel Merino to injury. However, Celtic manager Martin O'Neill confirmed in a Friday press conference that the Scottish club has secured his signature.
"I spoke to him this morning," O'Neill stated. "I think he wants to come. I think he's coming. I would have assumed he's got a lot of options. There was talk at Arsenal because they might pick up injuries. I'm delighted he's going to come. I think he's doing a medical tomorrow and all being well, I hope he signs up."
O'Neill emphasized that Celtic's stature played a key role in convincing Oxlade-Chamberlain, noting, "I think the football club itself has convinced him more than anything else." He added a light-hearted caution about Glasgow's weather, suggesting the player might reconsider after experiencing it, but expressed optimism about the deal progressing.
Transfer Details and Competitive Implications
Oxlade-Chamberlain and his representatives have engaged in positive discussions in recent days regarding the move to Glasgow. However, he will be ineligible for Celtic's crucial Europa League play-off against Stuttgart on February 19, as he will join after the player registration deadline. Celtic, currently third in the Scottish Premiership and trailing rivals Rangers by three points and leaders Hearts by six, face Dundee in the Scottish Cup on Saturday and Livingston in the league on Wednesday, where Oxlade-Chamberlain could potentially make his debut.
This transfer adds to Celtic's January signings, which include Junior Adamu, Joel Mvuka, and Benjamin Arthur, as the club navigates a turbulent season. O'Neill had previously expressed interest in the midfielder, mentioning on Tuesday that Oxlade-Chamberlain was excited about the prospect and had been influenced by conversations with friend and former teammate Joe Hart, though not on Celtic's behalf.
"I've spoken to him, but I'm sure he has plenty of options, maybe closer to London. I'd be very interested in doing it. I'm surprised people haven't taken him up," O'Neill remarked. "It's something we're interested in but if it doesn't materialise, it doesn't materialise."
Prior to Celtic's interest, Oxlade-Chamberlain had been linked with other clubs, including Championship side Birmingham and Premier League outfit Leeds, with his free agent status making him an attractive target. His move to Celtic now appears finalized, ending speculation about a return to Arsenal or other English clubs.
