Celtic's efforts to sign Fares Ghedjemis have suffered a blow after Frosinone reportedly rejected an improved bid for the 23-year-old winger.
The Hoops have been locked in talks with the Serie A club over the Algeria international, who was left out of the squad for Frosinone's friendly against Benevento at the weekend.
Celtic had been expected to step up their pursuit after missing out on Ghedjemis in January, and have now made their opening move of the summer window. However, Sky Sports Italy report that Frosinone have turned down the enhanced offer.
Serie A survival priorities
Frosinone are preparing for their first ever campaign in the Italian top flight and view the Algerian as a key figure in their bid to avoid relegation. Despite rejecting the bid, there is understood to be room for negotiation and the situation could still change.
O'Neill confirms strong interest
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill has made no secret of his desire to sign Ghedjemis, confirming the champions are pushing hard to get a deal done.
"We have a very, very strong interest in him," O'Neill said. "I don't know how close we can get, but we are genuinely making really good progress."
