Sources: Celtic could now get deal done for £10m
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(Credit: Imago) Fri 8 May 2026 20:45, UK Celtic are plotting a move to sign Schalke 04 midfielder Soufiane El-Faouzi in the summer transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.The 23-year-old has enjoyed a strong season as he played a key role in Schalke earning promotion from the Bundesliga 2, and has impressed a number of watching scouts.The Hoops are aiming to bolster their squad when the window opens and have been keeping a close eye on the midfielder’s performances throughout the season.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Schalke have placed an asking price of around £10million on El-Faouzi this summer.While that price tag may prove a little steep for the Glasgow club, Celtic are stepping up their transfer plans and the German is very much on their radar. 🔄 Celtic Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Parkhead boardroom. VISIT THE CELTIC TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Celtic agree a deal to sign Soufiane El-Faouzi?Football Insider reported on 6 May that El-Faouzi could be the ideal midfielder for Celtic after what he has shown in his performances for Schalke this season.Able to play in any role across the midfield, he could be the ideal fit as they scramble to land reinforcements in an area which has become a key concern.Soufiane El-Faouzi2025-26 StatsAppearances34Starts34Minutes Played3050Goals2Assists5Soufiane El-Faouzi’s stats for Celtic in the 2025-26 season.
(via Transfermarkt)While Schalke are reluctant to see him leave and plan to demand a significant fee, Celtic are among a number of clubs hoping they can reach an agreement.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “It will be very hard for Celtic to try and prise away at El-Faouzi right now. “He’s just won promotion back to the Bundesliga with Schalke and was a key man for them in that as well with two goals and five assists for the midfielder.“Schalke’s valuation could be prohibitive for Celtic as well, they’re looking in excess of £10 million for the midfielder, who is under contract until 2029.“Schalke are keen to keep hold of El-Faouzi as they prepare for life back in the Bundesliga, and they’ve put that price tag up to scare off any interested clubs.“That would make any move potentially to Celtic very difficult for them to do, not just because of price tag but also because of the competition for his signature.”Which other midfielders are on Celtic’s radar?El-Faouzi remains high on Celtic’s list of targets ahead of the summer, but amid concerns about the price tag involved in any deal, they are also considering other options.A number of potential midfield additions are being targeted ahead of the summer, with scouts keeping an eye on players across Europe and in Scotland.Credit: ImagoFootball Insider revealed on 8 May that Celtic are considering a move for Marc Leonard as he prepares to return to Birmingham City after his loan spell.The 24-year-old has spent the second half of the season on loan with Hearts and has impressed a number of suitors in their pursuit of the SPFL title.Celtic are interested in signing Leonard after his loan spell at Tynecastle expires and are believed to have been tracking him since before his move to Hearts.