Celtic transfer blow as target does not want Parkhead move

Celtic have received a transfer blow as £7 million-rated striker seems to prefer a move to Sporting Lisbon.

It is no secret that Celtic are looking to sign a new striker in January as they seek to provide some backup to Odsonne Edouard. Both Leigh Griffiths and Vakoun Issouf Bayo have struggled to make any meaningful impact this season, having just scored a combined 4 goals. And one name that has cropped up regularly in the rumour mill is that of Slovenian forward Andraz Sporar.

Sporar currently plays for Slovakian club, Slovan Bratislava. He has been prolific in front of goal this season, scoring 20 goals in just 26 appearances this season. And although his £7 million price tag is a bit steep, after seeing the other names that have been linked with the club over the past few weeks, the fans will be hoping that they manage to sign the Slovenian.

It has already been confirmed by Slovan Bratislava director Ivan Kmotrik that the two clubs have been have had discussions regarding the transfer of the striker. While talking with The Scottish Sun, Kmotrik said:

"“On December 23, there was a meeting between SK Slovan Bratislava and Celtic FC in the presence of Sporar’s player agent.“We discussed with Celtic the possibilities for a potential transfer. Celtic responded that they would send an official proposal. But they didn’t make any more calls and didn’t send any proposal after our meeting.“We don’t know now what the situation is with Celtic’s interest in Sporar. We have received offers from several clubs and we are open to negotiation with all serious partners, including Celtic. However, we will only accept a transfer fee which matches Sporar’s current value.”"

The two clubs have not managed to reach a deal though and Celtic have been warned that they could end up missing on Sporar if they do not move quickly as a number of other clubs are also interested in him. And now Portuguese publication A Bola are claiming that the striker has told his representatives that he wants a move to Sporting Lisbon over the Hoops.

While the Slovakian club were originally seeking £7 million for Sporar, it looks like they are ready to reduce that fee. On the other hand, it appears that Celtic are preparing to launch some big moves of their own after Scott Sinclair was sold to Preston North End and Lewis Morgan also appears to be on his way out of Parkhead.