Celtic are understood to be on the verge of securing a deal for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – and are keen to finalise the agreement within the next 24 hours to ensure he can be registered for their upcoming Europa League squad. The unattached midfielder has attracted strong interest from Parkhead as he searches for his next destination, and there was no requirement for Celtic to expedite matters before the transfer deadline given that free agents can be registered at any point.

He's been maintaining his fitness by training with his former club Arsenal, and reports had indicated he preferred to remain close to London following the birth of his second child. However, it's now believed he is enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Scottish Premiership champions.

The Herald reports that discussions between the club and the player have progressed, with an agreement 'moving closer' that could see him immediately join O'Neill's squad for the Scottish Cup fixture against Dundee at the weekend. It's suggested that the matter is a top priority for O'Neill, who is eager to complete the deal on Thursday so that Oxlade-Chamberlain...