Oxlade-Chamberlain set for Celtic comeback after free transfer agreement
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is poised for a return to top-level football after agreeing a short-term deal with Celtic, ending months of uncertainty following his exit from Besiktas. The 32-year-old midfielder is expected to complete his move to Glasgow on Friday, with the Scottish champions securing a free transfer coup.
The former Arsenal and Liverpool player has been without a club since his contract in Turkey was terminated in August, but Celtic have moved decisively to bring him in ahead of the season run-in. A medical in Glasgow is scheduled to finalise the deal, which will run until the end of the current campaign.
Celtic beat off competition from Birmingham and Leeds to land the experienced midfielder and are able to register him immediately due to his free agent status. Despite missing the Europa League registration deadline, the priority for both club and player has been domestic football and the Premiership title race.
The move carries significance beyond the short-term contract. Oxlade-Chamberlain arrives as a Champions League winner with extensive Premier League pedigree, adding leadership and depth to a Celtic squad locked in a tight battle at the top of the table. His versatility across central and wide midfield roles offers valuable options during a demanding final stretch.
Parkhead is expected to provide an intense setting for the midfielder’s return, with Celtic supporters anticipating an injection of experience at a crucial moment. The club hierarchy believe his presence can lift standards on and off the pitch as pressure builds in the title chase.
Behind the scenes, Celtic manager Martin O’Neill played a key role in convincing the former England international that Glasgow was the right next step. Personal discussions focused on responsibility, influence, and the chance to make an immediate impact rather than long-term guarantees.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s readiness has been carefully managed. Since November, he has trained at Arsenal’s London Colney base, initially with the Under-21s before joining Mikel Arteta’s first-team sessions. That period ensured his fitness levels remained high despite the lack of competitive minutes since August.
While questions remain over sharpness after time away from matches, Celtic view the risk as calculated. His spell at Besiktas showed flashes of quality, and his experience in high-stakes environments is seen as a major asset during tense fixtures and decisive moments.
As the season enters its defining phase, Celtic are betting that Oxlade-Chamberlain’s pedigree and professionalism can make the difference. The coming weeks will determine whether this short-term reunion with elite football delivers silverware and a storybook return at Parkhead.