Celtic look set to complete a move for Hapoel Be’er Sheva defender Hatem Abd Elhamed in the coming days.
The Hoops have agreed a £2 million deal for the 28-year-old, who looks set to become the club’s fourth summer signing, following Christopher Jullien, Boli-Bolingoli Mbombo and Luca Connell through the Celtic Park door ahead of the new domestic season.
Abd Elhamed will now undergo a medical and await a work permit and visa ahead of his proposed move to Scotland.
The Israel international can play at both centre-back and right-back, with his versatility a key attribute which caught Neil Lennon’s eye.
The Northern Irishman is still expected to strengthen his squad further ahead of the new campaign, with additions in midfield and attack a real possibility.
However, before the Hoops make any more signings, we’ve decided to take a look at the winners and losers as a result of Abd Elhamed’s proposed Celtic move.
Winner: Hatem Abd Elhamed
The player himself is the first obvious winner. Hatem Abd Elhamed will be joining a much bigger side in Celtic and will have the chance to test himself in a bigger league.
Loser: Danny Simpson
Danny Simpson is an unfortunate loser in the deal. The former Premier League winner was due to join up with the Celtic squad earlier in the week, however, his proposed trial has been cancelled as a result of the imminent move.
Winner: Neil Lennon
Neil Lennon will be bringing in a powerful leader to add to his ranks and will be able to use the experienced defender in various positions.
Loser: Barak Bakhar
On the other hand, Hapoel Be’er Sheva boss Barak Bakhar will be losing one of his most influential defenders in what appears to be a bargain move for the Hoops.
Winner: Andi Herzog
Israel boss Andi Herzog will also be a winner in the proposed move. Abd Elhamed will be gaining plenty of experience in a different league and will also be testing himself regularly in Europe, something that will only improve his chances of turning out for his national side.
Loser: Anthony Ralston
Young right-back Anthony Ralston is finding it hard to get into the side as it stands, so Abd Elhamed’s Celtic arrival will only make it more difficult for the 20-year-old to force his way into Neil Lennon’s plans.
Winner: Nir Bitton
Nir Bitton will have his fellow countryman arrive at the club, which will only help the versatile midfielder who has been with the Hoops for six years.