Celtic transfer target Gvidas Gineitis has been left out of Torino's most recent pre-season squad in what could be an interesting development.
The Bhoys are on the hunt for midfielders as they prepare for the likely exit of Arne Engels, and it's likely they will sign two midfielders between now and the end of the transfer window.
Paderborn's Mika Baur is one of the Hoops' key targets, and Gineitis appears to be the other, although there have been reports he could cost as much as £12million. Celtic will likely have the Engels money, which will be around £25million, but it's unclear how much of that they are willing to spend on a replacement, or perhaps replacements.
Gineitis misses out on Torino squad
Torino played Vado on Wednesday, and Gineitis was absent from the squad despite being present for the last friendly, against Burnley. At this stage, it's unclear whether the absence is related to a potential transfer, and there is no indication that it is.
But the Italian club have provided no other reason for his absence, meaning there will be rumours aplenty. Of course, the absence could relate to an injury, personal issue or simply rest.
It will be interesting to see if Celtic press ahead with their midfield options irrespective of when Engels goes. West Ham have been pushing for a deal to sign the midfielder, but their initial advances came up short of asking price.
The Hammers have been tipped to make a third offer, but nothing has been agreed at this stage. Celtic would be wise to take a proactive approach, knowing that Engels will likely leave at some stage, but that has not been the way they have operated so far this summer.
Gineitis is still only 22 years of age, and the experienced Lithuanian international has plenty of potential still to reach, which is what Celtic typically look for.
But if Torino do demand as much as £12million, it would be a big investment from the Hoops, albeit with Baur only likely to cost around £4.3-£4.5million, two midfielders for under £18million would be seen as good value for money by most.
Celtic will now be feeling the heat of their upcoming Champions League qualifiers, which take place on August 18 and 25, especially with the prospect Engels, who is a vital part of Martin O'Neill's squad, leaving before those games. The Bhoys cannot afford to be caught short in the midfield for a tricky-looking trip to Austria.
Add us as a preferred source on Google