Celtic are now being linked with a Serie A midfielder as they ponder possible replacements for Arne Engels this summer. The Bhoys are very likely to lose star man Engels this summer, with the Belgian likely to want to want to seize his opportunity of joining a club playing in one of the very top leagues.
The Bhoys resisted offers worth more than £20million back in January, but they are likely to facilitate a deal this summer, expecting to bring in around £25million, although some reports have claimed a deal can be done for a little less.
Either way, Celtic, who are yet to do any business this summer, need to start sounding out potential Engels replacements, and they are now being linked with a new midfielder.
Gineitis linked with Parkhead switch
Celtic are being linked with a move for Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis. The 6ft3" midfielder has been sounded out as a possible target, according to the Scottish Sun. The Lithuania international is valued at £4.7million by Transfermarkt, and he has three years remaining on his current deal, so he will likely cost a little more.
Gineitis is described as a strong runner who can carry the ball through the midfield, and he has the physicality to thrive in the Scottish Premiership. At just 22 years of age, he also has potential still to reach, which will be attractive to Celtic.
Celtic have money to spend
It will be interesting to see how much money Celtic commit to finding an Engels replacement. The Bhoys are not likely to spend anywhere near the £25million they are expected to welcome in for Engels, but if they want to make sure they don't miss a beat in midfield, they are going to have to commit a significant fee.
It will also be interesting to see when Celtic make their move. Do they act now and strike pre-emptively, given Engels is almost certain to leave, or do they wait until a sale is wrapped up?
So far, Celtic have been anything but proactive during the summer window, but that could change now that Martin O'Neill and the team are back at base.
The midfield is a concern due to the likely Engels departure, but it is also true that the Bhoys likely have other priorities, needing a new goalkeeper and at least two strikers this summer.
As things stand, Celtic have one out-and-out striker on their books, and Daizen Maeda, who can play there, is likely to depart this summer.
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