Celtic have identified Zinedin Smajlovic as a transfer target, with the Bosnian centre back attracting significant attention from across Europe.
The 22-year-old has been one of the standout performers for Sandefjord this season, and reports in Norway suggest he may have already played his final match for the club.
Norwegian outlet TV2 report that Celtic are among a number of clubs tracking Smajlovic, with Sandefjord bracing themselves for formal bids in the coming weeks.
The Norwegian club are expecting to receive a club record fee for the defender, with reports suggesting that figure would need to reach at least €3 million.
Dutch giants Feyenoord have also been credited with an interest in Smajlovic, further intensifying competition for the highly-rated defender.
Jens Berthel Askou’s Toulouse are similarly linked with a move, meaning Celtic face a three-way battle to secure the player’s signature.
Norwegian domestic rivals Bodo/Glimt have also been keeping a close eye on the defender, adding further pressure to the transfer situation.
Sandefjord sporting director Matteus Bardsen has made clear that any deal will come at a significant cost for interested parties.
Bardsen said: “In general, we do not comment on clubs and individual players. There is naturally interest in our players who are doing well, and the Eliteserien is valued more and more. Zinedin is a Sandefjord player and both he and we relate to that.”
The Premiership champions have also been linked with Smajlovic’s compatriot Benjamin Tahirovic, suggesting a strong interest in Bosnian talent this summer window.
Tahirovic currently plays for Brondby, and the Danish club are reportedly demanding at least £5 million before they will consider allowing him to leave.
Celtic therefore face considerable financial outlay if they wish to pursue either of the two Bosnian internationals during the current transfer period.
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