mazing Engels Repeat for Rodgers: Celtic Begin Talks to Sign £3m Star
Celtic have reportedly opened talks to sign Augsburg midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj in a potential £3 million deal, as manager Brendan Rodgers looks to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 season. The Kosovo international, aged 27, has emerged as a top target for the Scottish Premiership champions, and comparisons are already being drawn to the successful signing of Arne Engels from Augsburg last year.
Rexhbecaj is known for his energy, aggression, and defensive capabilities in midfield, making him a natural ball-winner. His playing style and background have prompted fans and pundits to view him as a possible repeat of the Engels transfer, which has proven to be a masterstroke for Celtic. Engels, signed for around £11 million, has been a standout performer for Rodgers, delivering 10 goals and 12 assists since his arrival last summer. His contributions have been key to Celtic’s domestic dominance and strong European showings.
Now, with Celtic looking to build on that success, Rexhbecaj is seen as someone who can bring a similar level of impact, especially in a slightly deeper midfield role. Despite his lower profile compared to Engels, the 27-year-old has significant top-flight experience, having made 179 Bundesliga appearances over the years. His current contract situation with Augsburg also presents an opportunity for Celtic to strike a deal. Augsburg and Rexhbecaj have reportedly failed to reach an agreement on a new contract, which could allow Celtic to negotiate a cut-price fee of around £3 million.
According to German outlet Kicker, other clubs are also interested in the midfielder, including Italian side Parma and Turkish giants Besiktas. However, Celtic are believed to be at the front of the queue, having already made initial contact regarding the player’s availability. The Hoops are confident they can convince Rexhbecaj to make the move to Glasgow, especially with the lure of European football and the opportunity to play under a respected manager like Rodgers.
Rexhbecaj has had a steady career in the Bundesliga, featuring for clubs such as VfL Wolfsburg, FC Köln, and now Augsburg. His consistency, work rate, and ability to break up opposition play have made him a reliable presence in midfield. Although not known for scoring goals, his defensive attributes and tactical discipline could be exactly what Celtic need to complement their more attacking midfielders.
For Brendan Rodgers, this potential signing reflects a clear strategy. Rather than chasing high-profile names, Celtic are targeting smart, affordable additions who can add value to the squad both in the league and in Europe. The success of Arne Engels has likely influenced this approach, showing that quality players can be found in less glamorous settings with the right scouting and development.
Should the deal go through, Rexhbecaj would join a Celtic squad already brimming with talent, but one that could benefit from more depth in defensive midfield. With Champions League qualification on the horizon and domestic trophies to defend, bolstering the squad is a top priority.
Celtic fans will be watching developments closely in the coming weeks as the club continues negotiations. If Rexhbecaj can replicate even part of the impact that Engels has made, it could prove to be another shrewd piece of business by the club.
The coming summer window promises to be an exciting one for Celtic supporters, and the possible arrival of Rexhbecaj could be the first of several moves designed to keep the Hoops at the top of Scottish football and competitive on the European stage.!
