Celtic reportedly facing battle to sign Strahinja Pavlovic

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Celtic are reportedly facing a battle to sign a player that was personally scouted by Hoops boss Neil Lennon.

O Jogo reports that Benfica and an unnamed English club are interested in signing Partizan Belgrade centre-back Strahinja Pavlovic.

Hoops boss watched player personally

The report goes on to claim that the player would cost over £5 million. Celtic boss Lennon personally scouted the player last month, he attended the Connah’s Quay-Partizan Belgrade Europa League clash.

Pavlovic is only 18, and would definitely be a signing for the future. But what a signing he would be for the club. It would be a lot of money. However, it would be signing a player who has the potential to be a Hoops centre-back for years.

Interestingly, the player is aware of Celtic’s interest. He told the Daily Record that he was ‘flattered’ to be linked to the Hoops.

Paying over £5 million for a teenager isn’t a transfer deal that Celtic would normally do. However, Neil Lennon must be very keen to sign the player if he scouted him himself.

Could be replacement for reported Lille target?

Lille are reportedly set to make a second offer for Jozo Simunovic. Perhaps Pavlovic could be the replacement in the squad should Simunovic leave?

Any fee received from Lyon could be put towards a deal for Pavlovic. Therefore, Celtic could end up replacing one centre-back with another. That would be a good bit of business by the club.