Nottingham Forest are preparing a fresh summer move for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels — but the Premier League side now face serious competition from across Europe, with Atletico Madrid emerging as a major contender for the Belgian star’s signature.
Engels has quickly become one of Celtic’s most influential players since arriving from Augsburg in 2024. The 22-year-old has impressed with his energy, composure on the ball and ability to dominate midfield battles, earning widespread attention ahead of a potentially huge summer transfer window.
The Belgian international, who is under contract until 2028, further enhanced his growing reputation with an outstanding display in Celtic’s recent derby victory over Rangers — a performance that only intensified interest from clubs across Europe.
Engels has continued to deliver in crucial moments, contributing four goals and two assists in 25 league appearances while playing a central role in Celtic’s title push.
However, securing the Celtic midfielder will be far from straightforward.
Borussia Dortmund are understood to be seriously considering a move, with manager Niko Kovac keen to strengthen his midfield ahead of another Champions League campaign. RB Leipzig also remain firmly in the picture after tracking Engels for several months, while Lazio are weighing up a potential approach from Italy.
Atletico Madrid have now entered the race too, with the Spanish giants closely monitoring Engels’ progress in Glasgow. Diego Simeone’s side are actively searching for midfield reinforcements and are believed to be highly impressed by the Belgian’s development, versatility and maturity at such a young age.
Interest in Engels is now spreading across the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A and La Liga — clear evidence of just how highly rated the Celtic midfielder has become.
With Celtic likely to face significant offers, it is hard to see a scenario where Engels is playing his football in Glasgow next season.
