Midfielder Gvidas Gineitis is reportedly set to join Celtic despite being handed a surprise start for Torino just hours before the transfer deadline. The 23-year-old is a long-term target for the Scottish champions as they look to add depth to their midfield following Arne Engels' departure, after he sealed a £22million move to West Ham earlier this summer.
Torino's Transfer Activity
Reports in Italy earlier this week suggested that a bid for the midfielder had been knocked back by Torino, but talks look to be ramping up with Celtic keen to bring in players before the Europa League squad deadline on Wednesday. However, the Lithuania international has been handed a start for Torino's Coppa Italia clash with Monza just hours after snapping up two midfield replacements for Gineitis.
Rolando Mandragora and Daniel Braganca were both added before the 7pm deadline in Italy. Mandragora has returned to Turin to join his former club from Fiorentina, and Braganca jets in on loan from Sporting. As it stands though, boss Ignazio Abate appears to be keeping Gineitis as part of his first-team plans despite The Herald reporting that a £9million move to Glasgow's east end is "expected" to be completed before Thursday's 5pm deadline in Scotland.
Official Statement from Sporting Director
Speaking ahead of the clash with Monza after the line-up was revealed, Torino sporting director Gianluca Petrachi issued an official statement, expressing his delight at a window that saw him bring in Scotland international Nathan Patterson from Everton. However, he also noted that more movement in the market could be on the cards.
"I'm very satisfied with the market, considering the amount of work I've put into it. I've worked day and night, and I'm satisfied with the amount of work I've accomplished. It's complicated, but it's my job, and I do it with great passion. Unfortunately, we weren't able to achieve all our goals, and there could still be work to do. I am optimistic about the free agent market."
