Celtic has completed its fifth summer signing with the acquisition of Danish midfielder Oliver Sorensen from Italian club Parma on a one-year loan deal. The Scottish club holds an option to purchase the 24-year-old.
Sorensen, who began his career at Midtjylland before moving to Serie A a year ago, expressed enthusiasm about joining Celtic. "I feel lucky to be a part of this club now," Sorensen stated. "I hope the style of play will suit me. They want to attack, they want to go forward. I hope I can contribute to that. I'm ready to give 100 percent. This is the next stage on my football journey."
Manager Martin O'Neill is reportedly looking to add as many as five more players before the European transfer deadline. Among the potential arrivals are Dutch midfielder Joel van den Berg from PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea striker Shim Mheuka, and Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
Van den Berg, a 19-year-old box-to-box midfielder, is expected to make a permanent move to Glasgow for £3.5 million. Mheuka, 18, is on loan from Chelsea and is viewed as a backup option. Johnstone, a four-time England international, is set to compete with current keeper Viljami Sinisalo. Celtic is also in negotiations with Torino for midfielder Gvidas Gineitis, a long-term target.
Additionally, the club is seeking to reinforce the left-back position, with Chelsea's Landon Emenalo identified as a potential option. Assistant manager Shaun Maloney emphasized the importance of replacing departed players. "But I think the profiles of what we need in those positions are really important that we do replace what we've lost," Maloney said.
In terms of player departures, Reo Hatate is expected to leave before the deadline, and Irish striker Johnny Kenny is attracting interest from multiple English Championship clubs.
Regarding team news, Maloney confirmed that Kieran Tierney and Hogh are doubts for the upcoming match against Aberdeen but should be available for the game against St. Mirren on Saturday. Callum Osmand will be sidelined for a few weeks due to an ankle injury sustained in a previous match.
Maloney also addressed the team's performance, particularly their defensive efforts. "We have looked really good attacking. As a team and as a group, I think we can definitely tighten up without the ball. We have to be more aggressive," he stated ahead of the Aberdeen match, acknowledging the attacking prowess of their opponents.