Napoli are reportedly keeping an eye on Arne Engels as interest in the Celtic midfielder continues to build ahead of the summer window.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Serie A side are looking at the Belgian’s situation in Glasgow, with his ability to play different midfield roles said to be part of the appeal.
But it is another reminder of the type of player Engels is.
He arrived at Celtic with a big price tag, big expectations and a profile that was always likely to attract clubs from stronger leagues if he showed enough in Scotland. Still only 22, he has the frame, engine and technical base that clubs in England, Italy and Germany tend to notice.
Napoli being linked makes sense from that point of view.
Engels is not just a holding midfielder, and he is not simply a number ten. He can play as an eight, drop deeper when needed and give a manager different options in the middle of the pitch. That flexibility is useful in Serie A, where midfield structure and control are so important.
For Celtic, though, this is exactly the kind of situation that needs handled carefully.
Martin O’Neill has only just been confirmed as manager, and the squad already looks set for a busy summer. Celtic need to strengthen in attack, add wide options, sort the goalkeeper position and bring clarity to the middle of the park.
Losing Engels on top of that would only add another major decision.
His first season was not always smooth. There were games where he looked like a player still adjusting to the speed, aggression and pressure of playing for Celtic. That is normal. Plenty of good players have needed time to settle in Glasgow.
There were also clear signs of why Celtic spent serious money on him.
When Engels is confident, he can move the ball quickly, cover ground and give Celtic a more athletic presence in midfield. He has the tools to become a far bigger player for the club than he has been so far.
That is why Celtic should not be rushing towards the exit door unless the money is impossible to ignore.
For now, the wording from Italy matters.
Tuttomercatoweb say Napoli are evaluating his situation. That is very different from saying they have made a move.
But if the interest turns serious, Celtic will have to put a proper value on him.
This is not a fringe player they are trying to shift. This is a young midfielder bought for big money, under contract, with room to improve and a profile that clearly appeals across Europe.
If Napoli want to turn admiration into something more concrete, Celtic should make sure the price reflects that.
