Celtic got one of their best results in Europe this season when they went away to Italy and managed to get a goalless draw against high-flying Atalanta in the Champions League. That was a result that they needed after suffering a 7-1 defeat at the hands of Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park in Germany.
Now, Atalanta's name has once again found itself being associated with that of Celtic. This time around, it looks like it is one of the players on their radar.
In the summer, Atalanta were believed to be heavily interested in Matt O'Riley before he moved to Brighton & Hove Albion. Now, it looks like another one of Celtic's midfielders has caught their eye. And in this case, a lot of people might be surprised.
As reported by Alfredo Pedulla, Arne Engels is being monitored by Celtic. The Italian side appreciates him and will continue to follow him, but for the moment, nothing more.
Atalanta reportedly monitoring Celtic midfielder
Engels was signed by Celtic in the summer from FC Augsburg for a club-record fee. Many were viewing him as the replacement for O'Riley.
To be very honest, a lot of people have been left disappointed with what O'Riley has showcased so far. He has not been a game-changer and still seems to be finding his feet at Parkhead. Of course, there have been some decent performances here and there but overall, the Belgian midfielder has not been brilliant by any stretch of the imagination and not met expectations.
So, the links to Atalanta will come as a surprise to many. Perhaps it is important to give Engels some more time. There is quality there for sure but he needs to be more consistent and find a way to effect games more than he is doing at this moment.