Celtic are ready to ramp up their interest in Canadian World Cup star Niko Sigur. The Hoops' recruitment team have identified the Hajduk Split star as one of their main options for the defensive midfield position.
Talks Expected in Coming Days
Chief executive Michael Nicholson is expected to advance that interest and open talks with the Croatian club in the coming days. The Hoops are set to finalise an £8 million deal for midfielder Mika Baur from Paderborn and land winger Haissem Hassan from Real Oviedo for around £9 million in the short-term.
The Scottish champions are still looking to add to their midfield options, especially with ongoing uncertainty over Arne Engels' future. West Ham United have had several bids rejected, but are still in pursuit of the Belgian international.
Sigur's Profile and Stance
A significant seven-figure bid would be required for Celtic to engage Hajduk in talks over Sigur. The 22-year-old is a Canadian teammate of Celtic star Alistair Johnston. National boss Jesse Marsch hailed Sigur as “Canada’s best player on the pitch” after their last 16 World Cup clash with Morocco.
Sigur, who has 22 caps, can play as a No. 6 or No. 8 in the midfield and can also provide cover at right-back. The Canadian has interest from some of Europe's top leagues, but would be keen to team up with Johnston at Celtic.
Sigur moved from Radomlje to join Hajduk's youth ranks before he advanced into their first-team and has been one of their main players over the last three seasons.
Other Transfer Moves
Celtic have also been linked with Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis. They are also expected to advance on a loan deal for a left-back and are still in the market for another goalkeeper. They have already splashed big money on Kasper Høgh and Camillo Duran this summer.
