Celtic make transfer contact over signing defensive 'revelation' as 'hectic activity' expected
Clubs from across Europe have expressed an interest in the centre back
Celtic are going to face stiff competition for transfer target Zinedin Smajlovic after a strong season in the Norwegian top flight for the ‘revelation’ defender.
The 22-year old, who was named after football legend Zinedine Zidane, made 26 appearances for Sandefjord in the Eliteserien last season and helped the Vestfold side reach a fifth place finish. Smajlovic’s performances have caught the eye of Celtic as they look to bolster their options at the back for next season. However, other European clubs are involved in the race.
European over-achievers Bodo Glimt are monitoring the Bosnian defender. Their data-driven scouting system helped them defy the odds to reach the last 16 of the Champions League last season. Also reportedly interested are Toulouse and Feyenoord. Smajlovic is under contract at Sandefjord until 2028.
Celtic face threat from ‘major clubs’ for ace’s signature
Local media reported: “Major clubs Celtic, Toulouse and Feyenoord have all joined the race for Sandefjord's Zinedin Smajlović. The Bosnian centre back has been a revelation for Sandefjord this year, but now things may indicate that the Molde match on Saturday was his last in Norwegian football. In any case, Sandefjord expects hectic activity around the center back in the upcoming transfer window.”
The current Eliteserien campaign got underway in March and will end in December as per the Norwegian footballing calendar, however it is unlikely Smajlovic will still be a Sandefjord player come the end of the season with several potential suitors. The defender has also previously featured for Serie A side Lecce and the Swedish Under-21 National Team.
Why are so many clubs after Smajlovic?
At 6’ 3”, the towering centre back has become an aerial threat in both boxes, whose physical prowess alone makes him an attractive option. However, his disciplinary record may be cause for concern, having already received 10 cautions and two red cards in his relatively short Sandefjord career.
In an interview last season with Svenska fans, the sought after prospect outlined what he thinks are his best attributes. He said: “I aim to start every game and play as much as possible. I want to contribute straight away and show what I can do. It's good competition (for places). Everyone pushes each other and it's healthy. I think my size and technique with both feet are my biggest strengths - both me and the team will benefit from that."
Celtic are also reportedly looking at Cracovia defender Oscar Wojcik in the summer as the heart of the defence has clearly been an area identified in which they need to strengthen. As it stands, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty, Liam Scales and Dane Murray remain their defensive options, as well as Stephen Welsh and Maik Nawrocki, who have both returned from loan spells.
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