West Ham United’s summer rebuild is now starting to take shape, with a Celtic star expected to be next through the door.
After selling Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville, West Ham’s summer rebuild has begun. WHUFC are looking to replace both players in different ways, with a mix of Championship players, youth and those who can make the step up should they return to the Premier League.
Now, the Hammers appear to have found their Fernandes replacement, with Matteo Moretto reporting the club are close to completing a deal for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels.
The Irons have long been linked with the 22-year-old and now appear to have got their man, one they believe can be the focal point of a promotion-challenging side.
Why Arne Engels is a statement signing for West Ham
This summer, Belgium international Engels has not been short of attention. Coming off an SPL-winning season with Celtic where he found the net seven times, the midfielder is ready to take the next step.
Arne Engels’ 2025/26 stats
Appearances Goals Assists
46 7 8
The 22-year-old is the type of player that can ignite any side and could be perfect for West Ham. Promotion is a non-negotiable for the Hammers and Engels is a talismanic midfielder that can more than fill the boots of Fernandes this season.
At a young age, the midfielder has gone from strength to strength and a move to the Championship will continue his growth. Angels is a player who thrives in carrying the ball from the defence to the attack whilst also having an eye for goals, with well-timed runs into the box one of his specialties.
Not only would Engels be a marquee signing for the Irons, but he also fits the clubs new recruitment style. Whilst he comes with no experience in England’s second division, he is a top quality player at an age where he can grow into a Premier League staple.
The Verdict: Engels deal can kickstart West Ham’s big summer recruitment drive
It has been a summer of change for West Ham, but with two big sales and their captain Jarrod Bowen staying, it is hoped that an exciting turn in fate awaits.
All that needs to happen now is incomings, and the signing of Engels would be the perfect start to making the Hammers into a promotion-ready side.
Not only is Engels a top quality footballer, but one that can excite and truly bring a team together. Promotion requires a lot of components and he would arrive with the playing style and leadership to help bring everything together.
Midfield reinforcements don’t come in much better form than that of Engels and this is a signing that could be a difference maker for WHUFC come the end of the Championship season.
