Celtic are stepping up their efforts to land Qarabag forward Camilo Duran, with fresh negotiations underway after an initial bid was knocked back. The Scottish Premiership champions are determined to make the 24-year-old their first summer signing, as manager Brendan Rodgers looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
Celtic Step Up Pursuit of Duran
According to the Daily Record, Celtic have returned with a renewed offer for Duran after their opening gambit of £1.7 million was rejected. Qarabag are holding out for a fee in the region of £3 million, but both clubs are reportedly hopeful of finding a compromise. Journalist Anthony Joseph adds that talks are moving positively and an agreement could be reached soon.
Duran, who has impressed in the Azerbaijan Premier League, would provide depth and competition in the wide attacking areas for Celtic. His pace and direct style fit the profile Rodgers is seeking as the club prepares to defend their domestic title and aim for a deeper European run.
Other Celtic Transfer News
Meanwhile, Celtic have tied down experienced midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to a new one-year contract, fending off interest from several European clubs. The 32-year-old, who joined last summer, has been a valuable squad player and his extension provides continuity.
The Hoops are also plotting a move for Tottenham Hotspur youngster Alfie Devine. The 21-year-old midfielder impressed on loan at Preston North End last season and is seen as a long-term investment. However, Spurs may be reluctant to sell without a buy-back clause.
Scottish Transfer Gossip Roundup
Elsewhere in Scotland, Rangers face a battle to hold onto midfielder Nicolas Raskin, with Atalanta registering their interest. The Serie A side are willing to pay over £17 million, but any deal would be delayed until after the World Cup. Lyon are also circling for striker Youssef Chermiti, though their reported bid falls well short of Rangers’ £25 million valuation.
Aberdeen look set to recoup most of the £400,000 they spent on Nicolas Milanovic as the Australian winger nears a return to Western Sydney Wanderers. Dundee are close to signing Slovenian midfielder Zan Besir, while St Mirren have lost striker Mikael Mandron after he rejected a new deal, with Leicester City and Charlton Athletic among his suitors.
Key Takeaways
- Celtic are in advanced talks for Qarabag forward Camilo Duran, with a fee of around £3m being negotiated.
- Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has extended his stay at Celtic for another year, providing experienced cover.
- The Hoops are also targeting Spurs midfielder Alfie Devine after his successful loan at Preston.
- Rangers could sell Nicolas Raskin for over £17m, but Atalanta must wait until after the World Cup.
- Aberdeen, Dundee, and St Mirren are all busy reshaping their squads ahead of the new season.
Quick Facts
Player: Camilo Duran
Age: 24
Club: Qarabag
Position: Forward
Reported Fee: £3m
Celtic's Initial Bid: £1.7m (rejected)