Celtic star Benjamin Nygren responds to Man United transfer speculation

Glasgow – Benjamin Nygren has acknowledged the mounting speculation linking him with a summer move to Manchester United, insisting that while he is “really enjoying” life at Celtic, every footballer aspires to test himself at the highest level.

United, who moved back into third place in the Premier League after a weekend of results that saw both Chelsea and Liverpool lose, are preparing for an active transfer window as they close in on a sensational return to the Champions League. With Casemiro set to depart when his contract expires and doubts surrounding Manuel Ugarte’s long-term future, midfield reinforcements are understood to be high on the club’s agenda.

Yet sources indicate United could also scour the market for attacking reinforcements, with Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho expected to leave permanently. Nygren, a versatile 24-year-old who can operate on either wing or in an advanced midfield role, has emerged as a candidate after a breakout season in Scotland.

The Swede has scored 19 goals in all competitions for Celtic, building on the 28 he registered in his previous two campaigns with Danish side FC Nordsjaelland. Swedish outlet Sportbladet first floated the possibility of a switch to Old Trafford, prompting questions for the player ahead of the Scottish Premiership run-in.

“It’s really just fun and a sign that you’ve done something good,” Nygren told reporters when asked about the United links. “I’m always humble, I’m always working hard to get better every day and I really enjoy Celtic.

“But like every other footballer, I have a dream to get as far as possible with my football and play in the biggest leagues.”

The comments stop short of pledging his immediate future to the Scottish champions, leaving the door ajar should United firm up their interest. With seven league fixtures remaining and a potential title decider on the horizon, Nygren’s form will be under close scrutiny by scouts assessing whether his prolific output can translate to the Premier League.

United officials have yet to make a formal approach, but the player’s profile – direct running, creative output and a proven eye for goal – aligns with the club’s desire to add dynamic, multi-positional talent to Erik ten Hag’s squad.

For now, Nygren’s focus remains on delivering silverware at Parkhead, yet his admission that he harbours ambitions of playing in Europe’s leading divisions ensures the rumour mill will continue to spin.