Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Attracts Celtic Interest Amid Arsenal Training Return

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain finds himself in the football spotlight once again as the former England international is linked with a surprise move to Celtic after training with Arsenal. The versatile midfielder, who has been a free agent since leaving Besiktas in August, could soon secure a fresh start—either with his old North London club or north of the border in Scotland.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Arsenal Reunion and Possible Transfer

Oxlade-Chamberlain, a Southampton academy graduate who wore Arsenal colors from 2011 to 2017, has returned to familiar territory, training with Arsenal’s first team in January. His reunion comes as manager Mikel Arteta faces a midfield dilemma following an injury to Mikel Merino. Arteta, questioned about the prospect of signing Oxlade-Chamberlain on a free transfer, made it clear that Arsenal remain open to all possibilities, stating, “We explore every option.”

Arteta continued, “We are actively looking for a solution. Losing a key player like Merino with four months of the season left and all competitions ahead means we must find every possible way to reinforce. If we can bring in someone with the right experience and immediate impact, we’ll do it. But if not, we stay with what we have.” The manager emphasized the importance of adding a player who can quickly adapt, especially with the club’s packed fixture list.

Rival Interest From Celtic for Oxlade-Chamberlain

While Arsenal weigh their options, Scottish giants Celtic have also emerged as contenders for Oxlade-Chamberlain’s signature. According to Sky Sports News, the club is closely monitoring the midfielder, who, at 32, brings the experience of 35 England caps but hasn’t featured for the national team since 2019. It remains uncertain whether Celtic have begun formal talks with his representatives, but their interest highlights the demand for Oxlade-Chamberlain’s skillset.

Arsenal’s initial approach to replace Merino involved exploring loan deals on deadline day, but those efforts fell through, potentially paving the way for Oxlade-Chamberlain’s surprise return. Meanwhile, Celtic’s interest adds another intriguing dimension to the player’s next move.

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Motivation and Role With Arsenal’s Youngsters

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s own initiative brought him back to London Colney. In December, he detailed his conversation with Per Mertesacker, Arsenal’s academy chief: “I asked Per if I could train with the under-21s, explaining I could also help by sharing my experience with the younger players. He liked the idea, and it was approved internally.”

Arteta, reflecting on their shared history, praised Oxlade-Chamberlain: “He’s among the best characters I’ve met in football. If we can support him while he regains his fitness and finds a club, that’s fantastic. He’s a role model for the team.” This endorsement from Arteta highlights Oxlade-Chamberlain’s off-field value in addition to his on-pitch attributes.

Potential Impact at Celtic or Arsenal

For Oxlade-Chamberlain, the next few weeks are decisive. Whether he lands a contract with Arsenal or joins Celtic, the move will mark a significant chapter in his career. Both clubs could benefit from his top-level experience and leadership, especially as they contend for honors in league and cup competitions.

The midfielder is candid about his career highs and lows, admitting, “So much in football is about luck and timing. Injuries have set me back, but I’ve been fortunate too. I might not have always met expectations, but I have no regrets about how I’ve approached my career.” After spells at Arsenal, Liverpool, and Besiktas, Oxlade-Chamberlain remains eager to prove his worth at the highest level.

What Comes Next for the Former England International?

With the football world watching, Oxlade-Chamberlain is hoping to finalize his return to top-flight football soon. Whether he stays local at Arsenal or makes the leap to Celtic, his next move could rejuvenate his career and provide either club with a well-rounded, experienced midfielder.

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Opinion: A Smart Gamble for Both Clubs

Given his wealth of experience and proven leadership, signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a smart, low-risk move for either Arsenal or Celtic. If he stays injury-free, his presence could make a tangible difference on and off the pitch, especially for squads navigating intense schedules. Ultimately, his next destination may well benefit from a player with unfinished business and plenty to offer.