Europa League
Gasperini eyes Celtic midfielder Arne Engels as Roma target
Gian Piero Gasperini met sporting director Tony D’Amico in Trigoria this morning to confirm Roma’s interest in Celtic midfielder Arne Engels, the 2003‑born Belgian whose valuation is reported at around £25 million. The midfielder recorded seven goals and eight assists in 46 appearances during a title‑winning Scottish campaign.
Roma’s transfer market is entering its hottest phase, with the management busy defining strategies and priorities for incomings, outgoings and contract renewals. The meeting in Trigoria was used to review the situation and map out the club’s next moves.
Mason Greenwood is considered a primary target to strengthen the attacking line, showing that the transfer planning isn’t limited to attack. The club is also looking to address other areas based on potential departures and the tactical needs of the new season.
Gasperini has known and admired Engels since his time at Atalanta, valuing his technical ability and potential for growth, as well as his capacity to make an impact in attack. The Belgian’s profile is being closely monitored for a possible midfield reinforcement.
Several clubs are interested in the midfielder, including AC Milan, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund and Leipzig, but Crystal Palace currently appears to be ahead and is reportedly ready to submit an initial offer to Celtic. The English club follows a rejected bid from Nottingham Forest in January.
Engels is recognised as a set‑piece specialist and has gained experience in European competitions, even facing Roma in the Europa League. His European exposure adds to his appeal for clubs seeking versatile midfield options.
Roma will continue to assess its options and decide on the next steps in the transfer window, keeping Engels among the key profiles under consideration.