Celtic have successfully secured the signature of former England international Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on a short-term contract that runs until the end of 2025/2026, but Fabrizio Romano has shared another key detail.
Martin O’Neill confirmed on Friday afternoon that the 32-year-old has agreed terms with the Scottish champions following productive discussions in Glasgow.
The ex-Arsenal and Liverpool star is now undergoing his medical examinations before officially completing his switch to Parkhead, with O’Neill previously confirming Celtic’s talks for the Ox.
O’Neill expressed genuine delight at persuading the 35-times capped England midfielder to choose Celtic despite interest from clubs situated closer to London.
The veteran boss admitted surprise that other English sides hadn’t moved more decisively for a player of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s pedigree and experience.
“I spoke to him this morning,” said O’Neill today.
“I think he wants to come and and I think he’s coming. I would have assumed he’s gotten a number of options.
“I think there was even talk about Arsenal, where he is training, might take him on because they might pick up a couple of injuries, so I’m delighted that he’s going to come, so he says.
“So I think he’s doing a medical tomorrow and all being well, I’m hoping that he signs on.”
Oxlade-Chamberlain has remained a free agent since departing Turkish Süper Lig outfit Besiktas by mutual agreement back in August.
The midfielder featured 46 times for the Istanbul club whilst contributing five goals before both parties decided to part ways.
Since leaving Turkey, Oxlade-Chamberlain has been maintaining his fitness levels by training with former employers Arsenal at their London Colney facilities.
He said his goodbyes to the Gunners on Thursday before travelling north to complete his Celtic switch.
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However, there’s disappointing news for Celtic supporters hoping to witness Oxlade-Chamberlain in European action this season. The timing of his arrival means he cannot be registered for Celtic’s Europa League squad with the February 5th deadline having already passed.
Celtic face Stuttgart in the first leg of their Europa League play-off on February 19th but must navigate that tie without their newest recruit.
O’Neill added Tomas Cvancara, Julian Araujo and Junior Adamu to his European squad instead, meaning deadline day arrivals Benjamin Arthur and Joel Mvuka also miss out alongside Celtic’s newest recruit.
Nevertheless, Ox’s arrival is still a welcome boost for O’Neill as he looks to chase down league leaders Hearts.
Fabrizio Romano reveals key detail of Celtic’s Oxlade-Chamberlain deal
Now, Romano has shared a bit more detail about Ox’s transfer to Celtic.
The reliable journalist says his short-term deal also includes an option to extend past this campaign, which comes as a boost considering the potential interest that would’ve been present in the player as a free agent this summer.
Celtic may not have to contend with that now, and could simply trigger the extension clause in his contract if they wish to keep him.
Oxlade-Chamberlain brings invaluable experience to Celtic’s title push having won the Champions League, Premier League and multiple domestic honours during his Liverpool career.
He’s demonstrated true quality at the highest level, whilst his recent training regime at Arsenal means he’s kept up his fitness levels.
Celtic secured him on a risk-free short-term deal without spending any transfer fees, providing crucial squad depth during their intense fixture schedule.
His versatility across midfield positions also offers O’Neill tactical flexibility, whilst his winning mentality could prove infectious within the dressing room.
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