Celtic’s transfer deadline advantage comes with major English window catch

While Premier League and EFL clubs have until 5pm on September 1 to conclude their business, the Scottish transfer window remains open until 5pm on Thursday, September 3.

On paper, that gives Celtic additional breathing room as they work through a busy final few days. Joel van den Berg is set to arrive permanently from PSV Eindhoven, while Oliver Sorensen is also expected to join on loan from Parma.

However, any business involving English clubs could effectively face an earlier deadline.

Celtic have agreed a deal with Wolves to bring goalkeeper Sam Johnstone to Glasgow on loan, with the 33-year-old expected to complete his move imminently.

While English clubs can still sell or loan players to Scotland after their own window closes, they would no longer be able to recruit replacements themselves, potentially making them more reluctant to sanction departures.

The situation could also have implications for Celtic’s outgoing business. Reo Hatate has reportedly attracted Championship interest, while Johnny Kenny is another player who could potentially head south before the deadline.

After Scotland’s window closes on Thursday, Celtic will no longer be able to register players contracted to other clubs until January.