Celtic are now said to be facing Premier League challenges over their hope of signing Canadian international Niko Sigur.
The Bhoys need new midfielders and fast, with Arne Engels' exit having left a big hole, while Celtic were already arguably in need of more depth in the midfield. Reo Hatate could yet leave the club, too.
Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis and Hajduk Split midfielder Sigur have been the main midfielder links, and if Celtic qualify for the Champions League on Tuesday night, they may well sign two new midfielders.
Celtic face Premier League competition
According to SportSport, there is now interest in Sigur from Premier League duo Leeds United and Coventry City, while LaLiga giants Valencia are also said to be interested.
The good news is that the report claims Celtic are the furthest ahead with a deal, with Hajduk Split asking for up to €4million, while Celtic are already said to have tabled a €3.5million offer, which is improved from their previous reported offer of €2.5million.
Sigur can play both as a centre midfielder and a right-back, which could tick off two needs for the Bhoys, who are said to be exploring options at right-back amid Alistair Johnston's injury, which will keep him out until October.
Celtic do have depth there, with youngster Colby Donovan impressing, while they also have Anthony Ralston to call upon, but Martin O'Neill is said to want even more depth for European football.
But the priority is midfielders, and Celtic have found themselves particularly short in the defensive midfield positions, which is Sigur's best position.
The Bhoys have found themselves with one out-and-out defensive midfielder for two positions in the Champions League due to Engels' exit and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's suspension for the two qualifying legs.
Sigur is a bargain signing, already a 22-time Canadian international at the age of 22, and he proved himself more than competent against solid opposition in the World Cup this summer. He certainly fits Celtic's transfer strategy, which revolves around signing younger players with plenty of room for growth in terms of ability and value.
Hajduk Split won't make a final decision on Sigur until after their Conference League qualifying second leg on Thursday night.
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