Celtic Initiates Talks with Croatian Striker
Celtic Football Club has initiated discussions regarding the acquisition of Franko Kovacevic, a promising striker from NK Celje. This interest has come to light through journalist Mark Hendry, who reports that Celtic has reached out to the Slovenian club to explore potential deal terms.
Celtic’s Interest in Franko Kovacevic
Franko Kovacevic, aged 24, has had an outstanding season, netting 11 goals in 14 league matches, supplemented by two assists. His proficiency extends beyond domestic competitions; he has also made a significant impact in European tournaments. Kovacevic scored five goals in the UEFA Conference League group stage and added three during the qualifying rounds. Furthermore, he netted four times in the Europa League qualifiers, highlighting his versatility and scoring ability on larger platforms.
Scouting and Valuation
Celtic’s scouting team has been closely monitoring Kovacevic’s performance in Slovenia’s Prva Liga. His current market value stands at approximately £2.5 million. Although NK Celje wishes to keep their star player, they are preparing for potential offers from several clubs.
- Ferencvaros has reportedly made an offer for Kovacevic.
- Ujpest and Levski Sofia are also expressing interest in the striker.
The competition for Kovacevic’s signature is intensifying, which means Celtic must act promptly. Any delay could result in losing out to rival clubs who are eager to secure his talents.
Celtic’s Transfer Strategies
As the January transfer window approaches, strengthening their attacking lineup remains a top priority for Celtic. Manager Martin O’Neill has emphasized the urgent need for a forward to enhance the squad. With various players linked to the club, the ongoing negotiations with NK Celje for Kovacevic stand out due to their immediate relevance.
This situation is certainly one to monitor as Celtic aims to bolster their ranks with new talent and maintain competitive stature in both domestic and European contests.
