Sources: Celtic delay contract decision on key star, O'Neill wants him to stay long-term

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(Credit: Imago) Wed 22 April 2026 9:59, UK Martin O’Neill feels that Celtic should take up their option to extend Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract for a further year, sources have told Football Insider.The Bhoys’ interim boss is said to have a strong trust in the 31-year-old midfielder, who is out of contract at Parkhead at the end of the season. Celtic are keen to delay their final decision regarding the ex-Liverpool man’s future until they have a new manager in place, but sources say that O’Neill is vouching for his stay to be extended regardless of who takes charge.

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s stay at Celtic Park for next season is seen as being likely, provided that he is keen to extend his deal, as he has become an increasingly big influence on the team in recent weeks. VISIT THE CELTIC TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Martin O’Neill to continue leaning on Alex Oxlade-ChamberlainFootball Insider revealed at the start of February that there were concerns at Celtic regarding Oxlade-Chamberlain’s ability to come in and immediately make a positive impact in Glasgow.

Oxlade-ChamberlainStatsEngels8 (5)Apps (Starts)25 (17)2G/A61.96Chances Created per 902.1337Successful Passes per 9041.81.74Tackles per 901.13.27Duels Won per 903.46Oxlade-Chamberlain’s 2025-26 Scottish Premiership stats compared to Arne Engels’, as per Fotmob.He initially made a slow start at Celtic Park as he got himself back up to speed and towards match fitness, but he has taken on an increasingly important role in recent weeks. Celtic are now at crunch time in terms of their hopes of winning the league title, and Oxlade-Chamberlain’s form across the remaining five games could have a huge say on where his long-term future lies.