Celtic’s summer transfer activity has taken another intriguing twist as exclusive reports confirm that a highly rated Canadian international currently playing in Croatia is determined to force through a move to Parkhead.
The 22-year-old versatile performer, who can operate as a defensive midfielder or right-back, has made it clear he wants the switch to the Scottish champions. He has been aware of Celtic’s interest for a couple of weeks and is now pushing for the deal to happen as quickly as possible.
According to sources close to the situation, Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson is preparing to open formal talks with Hajduk Split in the coming days. The Croatian club, however, are standing firm on their valuation and will demand a significant seven-figure fee before any agreement can be reached.
This development comes at a crucial time for the Hoops. With the transfer window still open and several key areas of the squad still requiring reinforcement, the prospect of landing a young, internationally capped player who already has experience of high-level competition is an attractive one.
Why the Player Is So Keen on Celtic
One of the biggest factors driving the player’s desire to join Celtic is the chance to link up with his Canada international teammate Alistair Johnston. The right-back has established himself as a key figure at Parkhead, and the opportunity to play alongside a familiar face while competing in the Champions League is proving highly appealing.
The Canadian national team connection runs deep. The player was part of Jesse Marsch’s squad for the recent World Cup campaign and has earned a growing number of senior caps. Marsch has previously spoken highly of his performances, describing him as one of the standout figures in key matches.
For a young player who came through the ranks at Hajduk Split after moving to Croatia from Canada as a teenager, the chance to step up to a club with regular European football and a passionate support is a major career opportunity. Celtic’s status as Scottish champions and their consistent presence in the Champions League group stages or play-offs make the move particularly attractive.
Sources indicate that while there has been interest from clubs in other European leagues, the player’s preference is clear. He sees Celtic as the right next step, both for his development and for the chance to compete at a higher level week in, week out.
Hajduk Split’s Stance and the Seven-Figure Demand
Hajduk Split are not expected to stand in the way of a move if the financial package meets their expectations. The player has been one of their most consistent performers over the past three seasons, making well over 100 appearances and contributing both goals and assists from midfield and defence.
However, the Croatian club are determined to extract maximum value. A significant seven-figure fee is the starting point for any serious negotiations. Celtic will need to structure an offer that reflects the player’s age, international experience, and remaining contract situation if they are to progress talks beyond the initial stage.
Michael Nicholson’s involvement is seen as a positive sign. The chief executive has taken a more hands-on role in recent transfer dealings, and his decision to open discussions with Hajduk suggests the club views this target as a genuine priority rather than a speculative interest.
Previous reports earlier this week had already indicated that Nicholson was preparing to make contact. The latest information that the player himself is actively pushing for the move strengthens Celtic’s position in the negotiations, as the selling club will be aware that the individual is motivated to leave.
Celtic’s Midfield Needs and Wider Transfer Picture
Celtic’s interest in this particular player fits into a broader midfield recruitment plan. The club are already in the market for at least one new midfielder, and that need could increase further if Arne Engels completes his reported £22 million move to West Ham United.
The Belgian has been a key figure in recent seasons, and his potential departure would leave a significant hole in the engine room. Mika Baur has already arrived from Paderborn as one reinforcement, but further additions are expected.
Other midfield options remain on the radar. Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis has been linked, while there is also ongoing interest in Reo Hatate from Greek side Panathinaikos. The versatile Canadian’s ability to play both as a No. 6 and higher up the pitch, as well as covering at right-back, gives him additional appeal as a multi-positional option.
Beyond midfield, Celtic continue to work on other areas of the squad. A new goalkeeper remains a priority, with Blackburn Rovers’ Balazs Toth among the top targets. Rovers are understood to be seeking around £4 million, though a deal closer to half that figure is considered more realistic given the Hungarian is in the final year of his contract.
On the left side of defence, Chelsea’s Landon Emenalo underwent a medical last week, but a slight injury has delayed progress. Dundee United’s Will Ferry is another name being monitored as a potential alternative.
What the Move Could Mean for Both Clubs
For Celtic, securing a young international with Champions League ambitions would represent another statement of intent in the current window. The club have already completed notable arrivals, including winger Haissem Hassan in a deal that could rise to £10 million, and they appear determined to strengthen further before the deadline.
The player’s dual nationality background and experience under demanding coaches, including a spell working with former Rangers favourite Rino Gattuso during his time at Hajduk, suggest he has the mental toughness required for the intensity of Scottish football and European nights.
For Hajduk Split, a substantial fee would provide important funds. The Croatian club have relied on the development and sale of talented players in recent years, and this would represent a significant return on a player who joined their youth ranks and progressed into the first team.
Negotiations are expected to intensify in the coming days. With the player’s clear desire to join Celtic and Michael Nicholson ready to lead the talks, the next stage will centre on whether the two clubs can bridge the financial gap.
Supporters will be watching closely. A deal of this nature would add depth, versatility and international quality to the squad at a time when Celtic are looking to maintain their domestic dominance while making progress in Europe.
As things stand, the ball is in Celtic’s court. The target is ready and willing. Hajduk Split want their valuation met. And Michael Nicholson is preparing to make the first formal move. Whether that results in a completed transfer before the window closes remains to be seen, but the exclusive information that the player himself is driving the interest has significantly increased the chances of a deal being done.
Further updates are expected as talks progress. For now, Celtic fans can take encouragement from the fact that a highly rated young international sees Parkhead as his preferred destination and is prepared to push hard to make the move a reality.