David Friel believes that Celtic are closing in on a deal to sign Haissem Hassan.
Celtic have been linked with the Egyptian winger for the best part of a month with Fares Ghedjemis of Frosinone another option to play wide.
The lack of winger options was highlighted against Dundee on Monday with Camilo Duran forced out of position.
Yang Hyun-jun and Sebasstian Tounekti never did anything to stake a claim for a permanent role in the side.
Friel, a one time Celtic View reporter, has been ahead of the game with Celtic transfer news throughout the summer.
On June 19 Friel was first to report Celtic’s interest in Camilo Duran. On July 10 Celtic announced the signing of the Colombian from Qarabag.
With the season underway a greater sense of urgency is needed to strengthen the Celtic squad.
CELTIC RECRUITMENT ISSUES AND SHRINKING SQUAD SIZE
So far the numbers are 15 out and two coming in.
Most of those leaving will barely be noticed but the squad has been thinned out.
From mid-afternoon on Thursday the news coming out of Spain was that the Hassan deal was close to completion.
In The Sun Friel explained:
Hoops chiefs have made progress in talks with Oviedo and are willing to splash out big money on  the 24-year-old.
It’s understood the initial fee for Hassan would be around £6m, but the overall package  is likely to reach £9m as O’Neill looks to strengthen a key position.
Hassan, who has rejected Saudi interest, has also  been linked with a move to French giants Marseille.
But Celtic are now in pole position, with La Liga 2  side Oviedo willing to do business.Â
Friel added:
Celtic remain in the market for a left-back and goalkeeper and have held talks over a deal for Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur.
Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis has been earmarked as an Arne Engels replacement as West Ham continue to chase the Belgian.
On August 7 the clock is ticking rapidly towards significant deadlines.
With visa/work permit issues and medical requirements it is unlikely that Hassan will be involved in Sunday’s match away to Kilmarnock.
Celtic have until August 13 to register their squad with UEFA for the Play Off matches against LASK. Two changes can be made 24 hours before the first leg on August 19.
Overall the transfer window closes on September 3.
While there may be four other signings being made there is constant updates on the expected departures of Alistair Johnston and Arne Engels.
It seems to be a case of whether they are sold before or after the matches against LASK.
An update will be expected at today’s media conferences. It is unclear whether or not Martin O’Neill will be taking training today or facing the media this afternoon.
£70+ million in the bank, a thin squad and STILL waiting to sell before strengthening? Mightymike and therealMcKay strike again