Martin O’Neill Confirms Celtic Working on ‘A Few’ Signings

Martin O’Neill has explained that he believes Celtic still need several signings before next Thursday’s transfer window deadline, with work ongoing behind the scenes to sign players.

The Celtic manager admitted that the squad needs more depth ahead of a demanding run in the Europa League and Scottish football.

Speaking on Sky Sports, O’Neill said: “I think that we’re still trying to get some players in.

“We would need a few in, obviously, to supplement the squad.

“But I’m hoping that we can get some people in before the transfer deadline.”

Celtic O'Neill
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill during the UEFA Champions League play-off first leg match at Celtic Park, Glasgow. Picture date: Wednesday August 19, 2026.

That leaves Celtic with very little time to make signings, especially with the transfer window now entering the last few days.

The club have already been linked with players across several positions, while the Irishman has openly admitted that more signings are needed.

Celtic’s Champions League exit vs LASK is likely to affect recruitment.

O’Neill admitted that potential signed may have been excited by the chance to play in the Champions League.

He said: “I think that some players would want to have experienced Champions League football. And that is very, very true.”

The Celtic manager also explained how crucial the Champions League can be, especially for younger players deciding whether to sign for the Hoops.

“But back to your point, I think the Champions League is a big carrot for particularly a lot of younger players.”

The Hoops will now play in the Europa League, where O’Neill believes the quality of opposition remains strong.

“The competition’s still very strong. And I’ve known this from the past, that quite a number of teams in this competition could easily take their place in the Champions League.”

Celtic failed in Linz
Linz, Austria. 25th Aug, 2026. LINZ, AUSTRIA – AUGUST 25: Celtic players looking disappointd after the loss in the UEFA Champions League Play-off 2nd leg match between LASK and Celtic Glasgow at Oberoesterreich Arena on August 25, 2026 in Linz, Austria. (Photo by Severin Aichbauer/Sports Press Photo/SPP) Credit: SPP Sport Press Photo. /Alamy Live News

The Europa League draw has already given Celtic strong opposition, and the number of games will soon become even more congested.

Celtic now face a race against time to add in depth that O’Neill desperately needs.

O’Neill has been clear that work is still ongoing in the background, and players are likely to be signed before Thursday’s deadline.

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