The Parkhead boss issued an update as the Londoners make their move for Engels and the Toffees aim to land Johnston
Celtic star Arne Engels
Celtic star Arne Engels(Image: SNS Group)
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Martin O'Neill has confirmed West Ham are in for Arne Engels - but their offer has fallen way short of Celtic's valuation.
And the Hoops boss admits Alistair Johnston could also leave with Everton firming up their interest.
The Hammers are locked in talks over a big-money move for £25million-rated Belgium international Engels.
Engels, 22, has two years left on his contract and has interest from the English Premier League - including Nottingham Forest.
But a switch to the Championship could be on the cards, with Nuno Espirito Santo leading the chase for his signature.
O'Neill is also aware of interest from the Toffees in right-back Johnston having fielded a call from David Moyes.
Delivering an update on his in-demand stars, O'Neill said: "I think that there's definitely truth in that. There's been something put in [from West Ham] that doesn't remotely meet our valuation for a start.
"It's the same with Alistair, I think Everton have been in contact. I'm not sure if a bid has been put out. In fairness, David did call me last week to say there would be contact.
"I don't know how far that has progressed. That'd be disappointing, obviously, but it's to be expected. Players do well.
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill(Image: Roddy Scott/Shutterstock)
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"We turned in a big Nottingham Forest offer at the last minute for Arne. He was alright with it. But if people's ambition is to play in a big league, those things are difficult.
"Our job is to try and keep them. If that's not possible, naturally we have to try and get replacements in."
O'Neill admits he's unsure if Engels and Johnston will feature for Monday's curtain-raiser at home to Dundee.
He said: "I don't think anything will materialise over the weekend. That I don't know. I haven't had a conversation with the CEO.
"I'd like them to be involved. I think we had a situation when young [Matt] O'Riley was leaving. He trained like an absolute trooper and wanted to play the matches too. So hopefully that will be the attitude of the players."
O'Neill says Celtic are edging closer to getting new signings over the line. He said: "It's our job to get players in. I was hoping, as days passed, that there wasn't going to be any serious interest. But we need players in anyway, and we're in the hunt for that.
"We're getting close. I don't know how close is close. But we're definitely getting close. He's a bit of a character as well so that's good news. He's bubbly and wants to do well. I think he'll be really good for us. That's the big hope."
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