Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Edges Closer to Celtic Move After Free-Agent Spell
Former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is edging closer to a potential move to Scottish Premiership champions Celtic, as talks progress over a deal that could see the experienced England international arrive at Celtic Park.
The 32-year-old has been without a club since departing Turkish side Besiktas in August, but his next destination now appears increasingly likely to be Glasgow. While a final agreement has not yet been completed, sources have indicated that discussions are positive and that Celtic are optimistic about securing his signature.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been maintaining his fitness by training with Arsenal, the club where he spent six influential seasons earlier in his career. However, with competitive football now a priority, a return to regular action under Celtic boss Martin O’Neill could provide the fresh start he has been seeking.
Celtic interest confirmed by O’Neill
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill confirmed this week that the club is actively exploring the possibility of bringing Oxlade-Chamberlain to Scotland and revealed that initial conversations have already taken place between player and club.
“I’ve spoken to him,” O’Neill said. “I know he’ll have plenty of options, possibly closer to London, but we’d be very interested in doing this deal.”
The Celtic boss expressed surprise that Oxlade-Chamberlain has remained unattached for so long, given his pedigree and experience at the highest levels of the game.
“I think he was genuinely excited by what we discussed,” O’Neill added. “He knows the club very well. He’s close friends with Joe Hart, and Joe has spoken to him, though not on our behalf.”
O’Neill was keen to temper expectations, acknowledging that football transfers can change quickly. “It’s something we’re keen on, but if it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen,” he said.
A career built at the elite level
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career has been shaped by performances on some of football’s biggest stages. He began his professional journey at Southampton, quickly establishing himself as one of England’s brightest young prospects.
In 2011, he made a high-profile move to Arsenal, where he spent six seasons and made 198 appearances in all competitions. During his time in north London, he lifted three FA Cups and became known for his explosive pace, versatility, and ability to operate both wide and centrally.
His Arsenal spell cemented his reputation as a dynamic, high-energy midfielder capable of influencing games at both ends of the pitch.
Success and setbacks at Liverpool
In 2017, Oxlade-Chamberlain joined Liverpool in a £35 million transfer, a move that would bring both triumph and frustration. Under Jurgen Klopp, he became part of one of the most successful squads in the club’s modern history.
During his time at Anfield, he helped Liverpool secure an impressive collection of trophies, including the Champions League, Premier League, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.
However, his Liverpool career was repeatedly disrupted by injury. A serious knee ligament injury in April 2018 ruled him out for nearly a year, halting what had been a promising run of form.
Further frustration followed in July 2022, when a hamstring injury during pre-season sidelined him for three months. As a result, he made only nine Premier League appearances in his final season with the club, limiting his ability to re-establish himself in the starting XI.
Fresh chapter in Turkey
Following his departure from Liverpool, Oxlade-Chamberlain moved abroad for the first time in his career, signing for Besiktas in 2023. The move offered him regular football and a new environment as he looked to revive his career.
During his spell in Turkey, he made 46 appearances across all competitions and scored five goals, contributing both experience and leadership to the squad. While his time in Istanbul showed flashes of his quality, it ultimately came to an end in August, leaving him available as a free agent.
Why Celtic could be the right fit
A move to Celtic would present Oxlade-Chamberlain with a chance to return to British football while playing a key role in a title-winning side. Celtic’s domestic dominance, combined with European ambitions, could offer the competitive platform he needs at this stage of his career.
His experience in high-pressure matches, Champions League fixtures, and title races could prove invaluable to a Celtic squad aiming to maintain its grip on Scottish football while progressing further in Europe.
Additionally, his versatility — capable of playing centrally, wide, or in advanced midfield roles — aligns well with Celtic’s tactical flexibility.
Mutual motivation
From Celtic’s perspective, signing a player of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s calibre on a free transfer would represent a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. From the player’s point of view, the chance to play regularly, compete for trophies, and reignite his career momentum may outweigh offers closer to home.
While negotiations are ongoing and no final decision has been announced, the sense is that both parties see clear benefits in making the move happen.
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