Celtic 'ready to negotiate' over midfielder as Rangers murmurs can't shove Hoops off 'best' signing position
The midfielder is on the radar of both sides of the Old Firm
Both Celtic and Rangers have both been linked with a move for Brondby midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic – but it’s the Hoops who are in the ‘best’ position to acquire his signature.
The 23-year old, who will be heading to the World Cup with the Bosnia National Team in the summer, has impressed in the Danish Superliga this season after making 32 appearances. He is a player that has been on Celtic’s radar in the past however nothing materialised. Portuguese outfit Porto have also expressed an interest.
A midfielder who can play as both a six or an eight, Tahirovic also has experience playing with European giants Roma and Ajax, where he has experience of Europa League football. Now with two years left on his contract at Brondby, both sides of the Old Firm are ready to make a move.
Celtic in ‘best’ position for ace as Rangers also lurking
According to Bosnian media: “Celtic is ready to negotiate with Brondby, and they are reportedly preparing a stronger financial offer. Of course, the Danish club is asking a lot of questions, but it is obvious that the story about Celtic and Tahirović has a good foundation. As they say, ‘where there's smoke, there's fire.’
“Rangers, another Scottish giant, were also mentioned earlier, but of all the clubs mentioned that are interested in Tahirović, Celtic is currently in the best position. Of course, this could all change over the summer, as more clubs will surely be eyeing Tahirović. A lot will depend on the games at the World Cup, but the very fact that he is part of the World Cup team raises the price even more.”
The summer in USA, Canada and Mexico could have a huge baring on Tahirovic’s price tag. The midfielder already has 26 caps for his country and featured in both of their qualification play-off matches against Wales and Italy, scoring a decisive penalty in the latter. Bosnia will face co-hosts Canada, Switzerland and Qatar in the group stage.
Where would Tahirovic fit in at Celtic or Rangers?
While playing for Ajax, Tahirovic told the Sarajevo Times that he prefers a more defensive role in the middle of the pitch. He said: “I like playing as a six the most. I think that position best suits my qualities as a player. I’m good when it comes to the technical aspect, I have a good passing range and I like having possession.”
For Celtic, the Bosnian could perhaps be a replacement for Arne Engels, who could be on his way out this summer. The club rejected a £25m bid from Nottingham Forest for the midfielder, who still has plenty potential suitors across Europe. Rangers brought in Tochi Chukwuani for a similar role in January but are still looking to strengthen in this area.
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