This time, it's a player who played a starring role at the World Cup who's caught their eye. Haissem Hassan played a crucial role for Egypt against Argentina as the underdogs came incredibly close to one of the upsets of the tournament, before Lionel Messi inevitably had his say.
Hassan exited the tournament in style, however, and has done enough to earn the interest of Celtic this summer.
Football FanCast's Verdict
Credibility
The World Cup is designed for breakout stars, and Hassan has become the latest. He was excellent against Argentina and it looks like Celtic were watching on, having submitted a bid worth around £3m in an attempt to sign the talented Real Oviedo winger.
|
Finances
Oviedo are yet to respond to Celtic's offer, but Hassan's Argentina display may have changed his valuation. If the Bhoys can land his arrival for just £3m though, then they could have an absolute bargain if he were to replicate his World Cup form.
|
Insight
If anyone was unaware of Hassan's talent, then all they needed to see was his part in Egypt's ruled out goal against Argentina. He drove from his own half, went past three or four players, before feeding Mohamed Salah. It was the stuff of a veteran winger, not a relegated La Liga star.
|
Impact
It's solid scouting from Celtic, but there remain question marks over the 24-year-old's valuation. If they can land a £3m deal, then they'll be the absolute winners here.
|
The World Cup has produced yet another star and this time, it could be the Scottish champions who take full advantage.
Celtic launch offer to sign Hassan
As reported by Fondo Segunda in Spain, and relayed by Sport Witness, Celtic have launched an offer to sign Hassan from Real Oviedo. The Bhoys have submitted a bid worth around €4m (£3m) and are now awaiting a response from the Spanish second division club.
Although the 24-year-old didn't enjoy the best campaign in La Liga last season, failing to score once as his side were relegated, he showed his full potential at the World Cup.
For £3m, Celtic clearly believe that the winger is worth the gamble after his display against Argentina.
Mohamed Salah is still very much the king of Egypt. He played the role of hero once again throughout Egypt's tournament, dragging them towards history game after game. But if he was the one on the throne, Hassan was the one who looked the most likely heir.
Against Argentina, the winger even outperformed Salah, playing a crucial role in Egypt's first attempt at a 2-0 lead before VAR intervened to take his moment away.
No player enjoyed more dribbles in an Egyptian shirt than Hassan, not even Salah. Meanwhile, the Oviedo winger also created more chances than the former Liverpool man and got himself an assist. It was an excellent display for a player who could yet be on his way to Celtic.
3 weeks ago
16
English (US) · 
French (CA) ·