Celtic Finally Break Deadlock in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Talks

Celtic’s talks with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain now look close to being wrapped up after several hours of doubt and slow progress. What felt stuck earlier in the day has started to move, with a deal finally taking shape after sitting on a knife edge for some time.

The midfielder has been without a club since leaving Besiktas last summer and has spent the months since keeping himself fit. Celtic’s interest has been about need as much as timing. Injuries, inconsistent form, and a hectic fixture schedule have left the squad light in central areas where experience and creating goals can make a difference.

Money was never the problem. The issue was contract length. Celtic wanted cover until the end of the season. Oxlade-Chamberlain wanted a deal that ran past the end of the season, especially if he began to play well. That difference slowed talks as important dates moved closer.

The deadline to register players for the Europa League tie with Stuttgart meant any delay had an impact. As time ran out, it has became clear that even if the move is completed, Oxlade-Chamberlain will miss out on that squad.

UPDATE: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is due to travel to Glasgow tomorrow and is expected to finalise a move to Celtic.

They’re close to agreeing a 6-month deal, with an option to extend by a year. Still some details to be sorted.

Won’t make #UEL squad deadline.

(w/@JamesSavundra) https://t.co/hxYuKxWlQZ pic.twitter.com/MSOj91l4L6

— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) February 5, 2026

If it goes through, the shape of the deal shows give and take. A short contract suits Celtic and keeps things flexible. The extra year gives Oxlade-Chamberlain cover if he plays well and stays fit. Game time becomes the trigger.

Missing out on Europe is a blow, but it does not wipe out the point of the move. A title race and cup games still matter. Rotation in midfield will be needed. Celtic need attacking threat in midfield through a tough fixture spell, not only in the Europa League.

For Oxlade-Chamberlain, this is about playing again. He needs matches, not more training sessions at Lennoxtown. For Celtic, it is about sorting an issue now without committing too far ahead.

Nothing is signed yet. A few things still clearly need agreed. But the direction is clear. After days of delay, both sides now look ready to meet in the middle and move it forward.