Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Poised for Move to Celtic

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, a former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder, is reportedly on the verge of joining Scottish champions Celtic.

The 32-year-old has been without a club since departing Turkish side Besiktas in August. He has been training with Arsenal, where he made 198 appearances during a six-year tenure. However, according to BBC Sport, a move to Celtic Park appears likely, although the deal has yet to be finalized.

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill confirmed this week that he is interested in Oxlade-Chamberlain and believes the interest is reciprocated. “I’ve spoken to him, but I’m sure he has plenty of options, possibly closer to London,” O’Neill stated. “I would be very interested in pursuing this. It’s surprising that more clubs haven’t taken a chance on him.

“He expressed enthusiasm about our discussions. He is familiar with the club and shares a close friendship with Joe Hart, who has spoken to him—although not on our behalf. This is something we are keen on, but if it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain began his career at Southampton before joining Arsenal in 2011, where he secured three FA Cup titles. He later transferred to Liverpool for £35 million, contributing to the team’s success in the Champions League, Premier League, League Cup, Super Cup, and Club World Cup.

However, his tenure has been marred by injuries, including significant knee ligament damage in April 2018 that sidelined him for a year. A hamstring injury during pre-season in July 2022 resulted in a three-month absence, limiting him to just nine Premier League appearances in his final season with Liverpool.

In 2023, the England international joined Besiktas, where he made 46 appearances and scored five goals.