Celtic could be preparing to deliver one of the first major transfer blows of the summer to Rangers after emerging as favourites to sign highly-rated Brondby midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina international has quickly become one of the most talked-about names linked with a move to Scotland in recent weeks, with both Glasgow clubs reportedly monitoring his situation closely. However, fresh reports now suggest that Celtic have moved into pole position ahead of their rivals, raising the possibility of another frustrating transfer setback for Rangers supporters.
With the summer transfer window beginning to intensify, the race for Tahirovic’s signature could become one of the most intriguing stories involving Scottish football over the coming weeks.
Celtic Move Ahead in the Race
According to reports emerging from Bosnia, Celtic are currently viewed as the strongest contenders to secure Tahirovic’s signature despite Rangers initially being linked with the midfielder earlier in the year.
The development has sparked major discussion among supporters of both clubs, especially given the growing rivalry between Celtic and Rangers not just on the pitch, but also in the transfer market.
In recent seasons, Celtic have often shown greater strength financially and strategically when competing for emerging talents, particularly players with experience in European football. Landing Tahirovic would only strengthen that perception further.
At just 22 years old, the midfielder is already viewed as a player with significant potential. His experience across multiple European leagues has made him an attractive option for clubs looking to add quality and energy in central midfield.
For Celtic, this is exactly the type of profile Brendan Rodgers appears keen to target ahead of another demanding season.
Tahirovic’s Journey Across Europe
Benjamin Tahirovic’s career path has already taken him through some of Europe’s biggest football environments despite his relatively young age.
The midfielder came through the youth system at Roma before eventually attracting interest from Dutch giants Ajax. His move to Amsterdam was viewed as a major opportunity for his development, with many believing he had the technical qualities needed to thrive in possession-based football.
However, his time at Ajax proved difficult during a turbulent period for the Dutch side. Changes behind the scenes, inconsistent performances, and managerial instability created a challenging environment for several young players attempting to establish themselves.
Tahirovic eventually decided to seek a fresh start, completing a move to Danish club Brondby in February 2025 on a three-and-a-half-year contract.
At the time, many believed the transfer would provide him with the regular football needed to rebuild confidence and continue his development.
Since arriving in Denmark, the Bosnia international has featured regularly in the Superliga. He made 25 league appearances during the latest campaign while contributing a goal and an assist from midfield.
Although those numbers may not immediately stand out, his overall performances reportedly impressed scouts from several clubs across Europe.
Tahirovic’s ability to play in multiple midfield roles has become one of his biggest strengths. He is comfortable operating as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box midfielder, or even in a more defensive role when required.
That versatility is believed to be one of the key reasons why Celtic’s recruitment team have identified him as a serious target.
Why Celtic Want Him
Celtic are expected to make midfield reinforcements a priority this summer as Brendan Rodgers prepares for another campaign involving domestic expectations and European ambitions.
The Scottish champions secured their 56th league title following a dramatic final-day victory over Hearts, but there is still a strong feeling among supporters that improvements are needed if the club are to compete more effectively in Europe.
Rodgers has repeatedly spoken about the importance of adding athleticism, composure, and technical quality to the squad. Tahirovic appears to fit that profile perfectly.
At 22, he also matches Celtic’s preferred transfer strategy of signing younger players with resale potential while still possessing enough experience to contribute immediately.
His background at clubs like Roma and Ajax suggests he has already been exposed to high-level tactical systems and pressure environments.
Supporters have also pointed to the physical side of his game as something Celtic could benefit from. Scottish football remains demanding, particularly in midfield battles, and Tahirovic’s size and energy could make him well suited to the intensity of the Premiership.
Another important factor is the Champions League.
Celtic know they must strengthen significantly if they are to avoid another disappointing European campaign. Adding players with international and European experience has become increasingly important for the recruitment department.
Tahirovic already has experience representing Bosnia and Herzegovina at senior international level, which only increases his appeal.
Rangers Could Miss Out Again
For Rangers supporters, the possibility of Celtic winning the race for Tahirovic would be difficult to accept.
The Ibrox club have already begun moving aggressively in the market following the arrival of Lawrence Shankland, with further additions expected over the coming weeks.
Reports have also linked Rangers with Dundee defender Luke Graham as Philippe Clement looks to reshape his squad ahead of the new season.
However, missing out on Tahirovic to Celtic could create frustration among fans who feel the club cannot afford to continually lose key transfer battles to their biggest rivals.
Rangers have frequently been linked with midfield targets over the last year as they attempt to improve creativity and consistency in the centre of the park.
Tahirovic’s age profile, technical ability, and international experience made him an attractive option.
But while Rangers were initially mentioned as possible contenders, current reports indicate Celtic are now significantly ahead in the race.
It remains unclear whether Rangers are actively pursuing the midfielder at this stage or whether their interest has cooled in recent weeks.
Still, the optics of Celtic potentially landing a player strongly connected to Rangers earlier in the summer would inevitably generate headlines.
Brondby Under No Pressure to Sell
One factor that could complicate any potential transfer is Brondby’s current stance regarding the player.
The Danish side are reportedly under no immediate pressure to sell Tahirovic despite growing interest from abroad.
Club officials are believed to feel his value could rise considerably over the coming months, particularly if he performs well on the international stage.
With major tournaments and international fixtures capable of dramatically increasing player valuations, Brondby may prefer to wait before entering serious negotiations.
That approach could make life difficult for Celtic if additional clubs from larger European leagues join the race.
At the moment, Celtic may be leading the chase, but transfer situations can change rapidly during the summer window.
Interest from clubs in Germany, Italy, or Spain could potentially alter the player’s priorities if formal offers arrive later.
Still, Celtic’s ability to offer Champions League football and a realistic opportunity for regular first-team action could prove decisive.
Brendan Rodgers Planning Another Rebuild
This summer already feels like another important turning point for Brendan Rodgers.
While Celtic successfully retained the league title, there remains pressure on the club to improve several areas of the squad.
Questions continue to surround defensive depth, midfield creativity, and long-term replacements for aging players.
There is also uncertainty involving multiple current squad members.
Marcelo Saracchi’s future remains unclear after reports emerged linking him with a possible return to South America. Boca Juniors are said to be monitoring developments closely, while other departures could still happen before the transfer window closes.
Celtic supporters are eager to see the club act quickly in the market, especially after previous summers where late business created frustration.
The pursuit of Tahirovic may therefore be viewed as an early sign that recruitment plans are beginning to accelerate behind the scenes.
Fans are particularly excited by the idea of signing players who still possess major upside rather than short-term solutions.
Tahirovic’s profile fits exactly into that category.
A Transfer Battle That Could Define the Summer
Whenever Celtic and Rangers compete for the same player, the story immediately becomes bigger than football ability alone.
The rivalry between the two clubs ensures every transfer battle carries symbolic importance.
Winning the race for Tahirovic would allow Celtic fans to celebrate not only the arrival of a talented midfielder but also another perceived victory over their rivals off the pitch.
For Rangers, it would raise difficult questions about recruitment strategy and whether they are capable of competing financially and structurally with Celtic at this moment in time.
Much could still change before the transfer window closes.
Negotiations have not yet reached an advanced stage publicly, and Brondby’s position means patience may be required from all parties involved.
But one thing is already clear: Benjamin Tahirovic has quickly become one of the most closely watched names of the Scottish summer transfer window.
And if Celtic do eventually secure his signature ahead of Rangers, it could become one of the defining transfer stories of the entire offseason.
