When Arne Engels can make West Ham debut as Championship deadline emerges

Arne Engels is moving closer to joining West Ham with his medical taking place today.

The Celtic midfielder has been a top target for Nuno Espirito Santo's side, who have been slow in the market so far.

Joel Veltman's arrival has began to kick things into gear, with his signing followed not long after by Manor Solomon's.

The Championship season is set to get underway tonight, (14 August) as Wolves host Blackburn Rovers.

Hammers fans will have to wait until Sunday, where they face fellow relegated Premier League side Burnley

And whether Engels could be in line for a quick debut has emerged ahead of his proposed move.

How Arne Engels could be available for West Ham on Sunday

Nuno will want as strong of a squad as possible for West Ham's Championship opener and Engels is still within a shot of making it.

Despite a transfer yet to be officially announced, the Irons have plenty of time in order to register the midfielder ahead of the fixture against Burnley.

With Engels' medical underway at West Ham, fans will be anticipating his announcement.

According to Sky Sports, the 22-year-old, who has agreed terms on a five-year deal with the E20 club must be register before noon on 15 August

This means the Hammers will have to complete the correct paperwork and send it off to the EFL, allowing Engels to be part of the squad.

The midfielder has been playing with Celtic and has already gone through a pre-season, so concerns over fitness should not be there.

West Ham versus Burnley will kick off at Turf Moor at 4 pm UK time on 16 August.

Should Engels start for West Ham on Sunday?

If all is announced and Engels is available, Nuno may be tempted to throw him straight in.

However, that may not be smart. The midfielder will likely only have had one day to train with his new teammates and will have had less time to work on the tactical aspect ahead of facing Burnley

A position on the bench would make the most sense, with minutes to try and impact the game if needed.

However, in a London derby against Charlton Athletic the following week, Nuno should fully unleash Engels, with a chance to shine in front of the Irons' home crowd.

Hopefully more signings can be completed before hosting the Addicks, with more introductions made to the supporters.