Celtic have discovered the price it could take to land Zinedin Smajlovic this summer, with fresh claims emerging from Greece regarding the Sandefjord midfielder’s future.
The 20-year-old has been linked with a move away from Norway after impressing for Sandefjord, attracting interest from Celtic and several clubs across Europe.
Now, a report from Greek outlet Gazzetta suggests Celtic and Olympiacos have both already tested Sandefjord’s resolve with offers for Smajlovic and it appears the Norwegians have told both clubs their price.
👀 A reasonable figure?
Sandefjord reportedly reject Celtic approach for Smajlovic
According to the report, neither club has been successful in their attempts to strike a deal for Smajlovic.
Gazzetta claims, “Celtic, it is said, have also made the same offer as Olympiacos to the Norwegians for the transfer of Smajlovic, around 3.5 to 4 million Euros.
“But the Norwegians have replied that they are not giving him for that much money. The figure should reach 4.5 to 5 million Euros, if I understand correctly.”
That leaves both Celtic and Olympiacos facing the same decision. Either return with an improved offer or look elsewhere as the summer transfer window develops.
Celtic face decision on Zinedin Smajlovic
If the reported figures are accurate, the gap between Sandefjord’s valuation and the bids allegedly submitted by Celtic and Olympiacos are not too far apart.
However, Celtic have shown in previous transfer windows that they have a tendency to dither over transfer fees so it is now down to whether the club will back O’Neill to get his man.
At this stage, there is no real indication that Celtic are preparing an improved offer and that will worry fans.
Whether Celtic are willing to meet the price that Sandefjord have set remains to be seen, but the latest update has at least provided a clear picture of the transfer fee the Norwegians are looking for.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
