Football
Exclusive: Celtic Boss O’Neill Confirms Talks with Former Liverpool Midfielder
Summary: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is eyeing a move to Celtic as confirmed by manager Martin O'Neill. The midfielder, now a free agent after leaving Beşiktaş, seeks regular football in Scotland and values the club's history, European competition, and proximity to London. Celtic is keen but acknowledges competition for his signature.
Liverpool v Manchester City - UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One by Shaun Botterill | Getty Images
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is ready for a dramatic return to British football, and Celtic are right at the front of the queue, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.
Our sources understand the former England, Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder is keen on a move to the Scottish champions, with Hoops boss Martin O'Neill confirming he has already held direct talks with the 32-year-old about a potential switch to Parkhead.
“I’ve spoken to him, but I’m sure he has plenty of options, maybe closer to London,” revealed O’Neill, admitting there will be competition for Oxlade-Chamberlain’s signature.
“I’d be very interested in doing it. I’m surprised people haven’t taken him up.”
Celtic are exploring the possibility of a free-transfer deal after Oxlade-Chamberlain left Turkish side Beşiktaş, having mutually agreed to terminate his contract in August of last year.
His time abroad was disrupted by injuries, but he is now fully fit, available and desperate to get regular football again.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was linked with a return to the Premier League in December, with Sunderland, Everton, and Fulham reportedly interested, but nothing came of those approaches.
IMPACT
Northern Irishman O’Neill believes the former Liverpool star could be a major asset as Celtic look to defend their Premiership crown and make an impact in Europe.
And the Celtic boss says the early signs from discussions have been encouraging.
“I think he was very excited about what we were saying,” O’Neill added.
“He knows all about the club, he’s a big friend of Joe Hart and Joe has spoken to him — not on our behalf.”
The chance to play in front of packed Parkhead crowds, challenge for trophies and feature in European competition is believed to appeal strongly to Oxlade-Chamberlain, who still feels he has plenty to offer at the top level.
A former England international, his experience in title races and Champions League nights is seen as a huge plus by Celtic’s recruitment team.
Personal reasons are also playing a big role in the midfielder’s thinking. Oxlade-Chamberlain has grown tired of life overseas and wants to return closer to home after spending time away from his young family.
POP STAR
Married to Perrie Edwards of Little Mix, he is keen to be back within easy reach of London, with Scotland would not be too far a journey.
While O’Neill accepts a deal is far from guaranteed, Celtic’s interest is real and ongoing.
“It’s something we’re interested in,” he said. “But if it doesn’t materialise, it doesn’t materialise.”
For now, the door is open and Celtic are waiting to see if Oxlade-Chamberlain decides Parkhead is the perfect place to relaunch his career.
Having written for national newspapers and respected publications for 25 years, Neil brings a wealth of experience as both a writer and journalist. In the past three years, he has done freelance work for BBC Sport.