Celtic’s interest in Gvidas Gineitis has not gone away, and a potential transfer could hinge on what happens next week.
A 3-0 win over LASK means Celtic are in the driving seat as they look to qualify for the league phase of the Champions League, and Gineitis could still be added to bolster the midfield options.
Celtic have held an interest in Torino midfielder Gineitis all summer as they look to strengthen in the middle of the park. Arne Engels departed for West Ham, while Reo Hatate is subject to interest elsewhere as his departure looks likely.
Another midfielder is on the club’s radar to replace Engels’ qualities.
It is being reported by Europa Calcio that Celtic have not given up their interest in Gineitis and could table a bid if qualification to the Champions League is secured on Tuesday. The same report states that Torino would look for around €10 million.
However, CeltsAreHere understands a fee in the region of £6 million, with significant add-ons, would be enough despite reports in Italy previously suggesting around €14 million.
In a recent interview, Petrachi said: “The club is losing around €20 million this year, and therefore, naturally, we also need to make some sales.”
The Lithuanian international is considered a valuable prospect and is under contract until 2029. The 22-year-old is said to be open to the move, and a place in the Champions League could pave the way for official proceedings between the clubs.
The Celts have a strong lead as they travel to Austria for Tuesday’s second leg, but Martin O’Neill has made it clear that no one inside the club is getting carried away and that full focus remains on getting the job done against LASK.
A performance similar to the second-half showing on Wednesday night would all but ensure that they return to the league phase of Europe’s elite club competition.
Whether Gineitis becomes a Celtic player remains to be seen, but it is a transfer story that seems far from over.
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