Defensive midfield is one position where Celtic seem to be looking to strengthen in this summer transfer window. Earlier, they were being linked with a new name pretty much every week. While the focus has shifted towards other positions, with key players like Nicolas Kuhn and Greg Taylor leaving, that should not mean that the Hoops will overlook the middle of the park.
Celtic have been linked with some high-profile players in that area of the pitch. But it looks like they also have their eyes on an 18-year-old Serbian talent.
In fact, Celtic have already started talks for the midfielder. Although, there are plenty of other clubs involved in the race, including their Glasgow rivals Rangers.
As reported by the Daily Record, Cukaricki's sporting director Vladimir Matijašević has shared that both Celtic and Rangers had phoned about Andrej Bacanin, as he said:
"We had calls from Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers, Ajax, Udinese, and some other teams are interested... It is possible that other options will emerge, and I expect the transfer to be completed in the next 10 days. I expect this to be another big exit transfer for Čukarički, which would cover our club's budget."
Celtic talks to sign midfielder confirmed by club official
Matijašević is an 18-year-old midfielder who has featured for Serbia at multiple youth international levels. He is viewed as one of the best rising talents in the country right now.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Matijašević. The defensive midfield position is one that the Hoops are looking to strengthen in this summer window.
Despite being 18 years of age, Matijašević has already made 19 appearances at the senior level for Cukaricki. He might be a decent coup for the Hoops, if they can pull it off.
Of course, signing Matijašević won't be easy. He is also wanted by clubs like Rangers, Ajax and others. One would imagine that the Hoops will be one of the frontrunners for his signature though, having been namechecked in public.
That being said, other defensive midfielders are on their radar as well. So, things could get interesting very soon.