Brendan Rodgers delighted as Celtic sign 'real quality' in Arne Engels

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers hailed the signing of “a young player of real quality” as Arne Engels signed for the club.

Engels made a deadline day move from Augsburg to the Premiership champions in a deal that’s understood to break Celtic’s transfer record.

The 20-year-old has signed a four-year deal and his signing was followed by the capture of Luke McCowan from Dundee in a deal that was completed just before the transfer deadline.

Engels moves to Scotland after an impressive breakthrough season in the Bundesliga with Augsburg and on the day he received a call-up to the Belgian national squad.

Rogers believes Celtic have signed a player who has already showed his talent and still has the potential to improve.

“We are delighted to bring Arne to Celtic,” the manager said. “He is an exciting young player of real quality who has already made his mark at a really high level in the Bundesliga.

“He has a wide range of attributes which will allow him to play a number of positions in midfield, so we feel he is an excellent acquisition for the club. I think Arne’s style of play, his energy and his technical ability really will suit our game model.

“While Celtic will always be our priority, it is fantastic too that Arne is now receiving full international recognition within a top Belgian squad, something he is very deserving of.”

💚 McCowan has arrived! 🤍#CelticFC is delighted to confirm the permanent signing of Luke McCowan from Dundee on a three-year deal ✍

Welcome to the Champions, Luke! 🏆🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 30, 2024

McCowan arrives at Celtic on a three-year contract after impressing at Dundee as they were promoted to the Premiership and then secured a top six finish on their return to the top flight.

Hibernian had pursued him over the summer, and had four bids rejected, but Celtic moved to complete a deal on the final day and bring the Scot into their squad ahead of challenges in the Champions League and in domestic competition.

Rodgers said: “We are really happy to welcome Luke to Celtic.

“He is a player with great ability, energy and commitment and we are sure he will be a very positive addition to our squad.”

Celtic also announced the departure of midfielder Tomoki Iwata to Birmingham City on a permanent deal.