Celtic are looking to sign Hajduk Split’s Niko Sigur this summer, after Martin O’Neill’s side failed in January.
The Canada international’s preferred role is midfield and can also operate as a right-back and centre-back.
Last week, Sport Witness covered claims from Croatia that his versatility appeals to Celtic, who are planning to use him as a midfielder. O’Neill’s side are preparing an offer of around €2.9m.
Celtic have funds
The latest claims from Scotland have reported the 22-year-old is keen on joining Martin O’Neill’s side.
This is mainly because he wants to play in the Champions League and link up with his compatriot, Alistair Johnston, at Celtic.
O’Neill’s side have also raised €25.8m from Arne Engels’ sale to West Ham United.
Nogometne Vijesti, after relaying this, shares their own take on the possibility of Niko Sigur joining the Scottish champions this summer.
Why Celtic have to wait
The outlet states: ‘The entire burden of negotiations has now fallen on the shoulders of the club’s operatives’.
Hajduk Split, who have to protect their own financial interest, have Niko Sigur and Rokas Pukštas as their most valuable assets.
Their immediate focus in on Thursday’s UEFA Conference League qualifier against Raków Częstochowa. The return leg will take place on August 27th.
According to the report, the Croatian club don’t intend to sell the duo before these two matches. Therefore, Celtic have to wait until the last days of the window to sign Sigur, as it will be difficult for him to leave before the two European fixtures.
In they don’t progress further in Europe, Hajduk have to raise at least €10m from selling the Canadian and Pukštas.
Hajduk are asking €4m for the Celtic target. Nogometne Vijesti states the Croatian club are hoping the price rises to €5m because of ‘Celtic’s urgent need of reinforcements’.
The versatile player is keen on joining the Glasgow club. Whether Celtic are willing to offer at least €4m is unclear.
Last season, he played 35 matches operating as a right-back and a defensive midfielder.
