According to the Daily Record, as reported by Sportske novosti, Celtic has once again shown interest in Niko Sigur, Hajduk's midfielder. The 22-year-old, who has spent his entire professional career at Poljud, could become the most expensive signing in the Scottish club's history this summer.
Nicholson Ready for Talks, Rodgers Seeks Reinforcement
The Daily Record reports that Celtic's chief executive, Michael Nicholson, is expected to soon begin discussions with Hajduk's officials. Manager Brendan Rodgers is still looking for a new face in midfield, largely due to uncertainty surrounding Arne Engels, for whom Torino is reportedly willing to pay €20 million. Although West Ham has made several attempts to sign the Belgian, Celtic has rejected all offers, but the London club is not giving up.
Meanwhile, Celtic is finalizing two major deals: Mike Baur, a midfielder from Paderborn, is set to arrive for around €9 million, and winger Haissem Hassan from Real Oviedo is coming in for about €10 million. Despite these additions, Rodgers still wants another player for the middle of the park.
Valuation of €4-5 Million, Hajduk Won't Block Transfer
Sigur's market value is estimated at between €4 and €5 million. Hajduk will not stand in the way of his departure, as the club needs to raise around €10 million from player sales by the end of the year. Sigur and Pukštas are currently seen as the biggest hopes for generating income. Scottish media suggest that Celtic would need to submit a "concrete multi-million offer" to kick off serious negotiations.
Sigur was born in Burnaby, British Columbia, and joined Hajduk in 2022 from Slovenia's Radomlje. After a brief stint in the youth team, he quickly became part of the senior squad, where he established himself as a key player. In late 2023, he signed a contract with Hajduk until the summer of 2028. So far, he has made 117 official appearances for the Split-based club, scoring five goals and providing five assists. Transfermarkt currently values him at €4 million.
Sigur has earned 22 caps for the Canadian national team. After the Round of 16 match at the World Cup against Morocco, head coach Jesse Marsch praised him, calling him "the best Canadian player on the pitch."
Johnston's Role and Sigur's Desire
The 22-year-old can play as a number six or eight in midfield, and he can also cover the right flank. Although there are other options, it seems he would prefer to play alongside his international teammate Alistair Johnston, who plays for Celtic. Scottish media claim that Sigur himself is interested in the move, despite interest from clubs in several stronger European leagues. Celtic has been tracking him for a while and made a serious attempt to sign him during the winter transfer window, but the deal fell through. Wolverhampton also showed interest after the World Cup, with reports suggesting they could have brought him in for around €3 million. Now it's the Scots' turn.