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West Ham remain interested in signing Arne Engels, with Celtic reportedly expecting the Championship club to return with another offer. According to West Ham insider ExWHUEmployee, the Belgian midfielder remains firmly on the Hammers’ transfer agenda and the London club have not given up hope of completing a deal. West Ham, however, are unwilling to go beyond the figure they believe represents fair value. That leaves the clubs apart on the price as discussions continue. It has recently been reported that Celtic want around £25 million for Engels. The Hoops rejected an offer in that region from Nottingham Forest during the January transfer window and are not expected to lower their valuation now. No fresh West Ham bid has been reported, but Celtic are believed to expect another proposal. Their next offer should provide a clearer indication of whether they are prepared to move closer to the Scottish champions’ demands. The 22-year-old is reportedly keen on the switch, although there has been no suggestion that he has submitted a formal transfer request or refused to play. Celtic remain in control of the situation because the midfielder is under contract. They have no need to accept an offer that falls below their valuation, particularly after standing firm when Forest came calling earlier in the year. The timing of any possible departure would also be important for Martin O’Neill. Celtic have major Champions league qualifiers approaching and losing a key midfielder without a replacement ready would create another problem during an already busy transfer window. West Ham’s interest has not disappeared, but an agreement between the clubs remains the main obstacle. Engels’ reported desire to make the move may help the Hammers, though Celtic will still expect any sale to reflect his value to the squad and the length of his contract. For now, Celtic are waiting to see whether the anticipated bid will come close enough to their reported £25 million asking price.