Celtic are reportedly believed to be leading the chase for Kazakhstan international Galymzhan Kenzhebek, moving ahead of Hearts and several European clubs in pursuit of the winger. (TCW)
But reports from Kazakhstan claim Celtic have stepped up their interest in the 22-year-old, who is out of contract with Yelimay Semey at the end of the year.
Kenzhebek’s club turned down approaches from Slovakian sides Slovan Bratislava, Kosice and Zilina during the summer, preferring to hold onto him until his deal expires. Interest has also come from Russia, Austria, Belgium and the Czech Republic, yet Celtic’s scouting presence has made an impression.
The winger has featured in all five of Kazakhstan’s World Cup qualifiers so far and opened his international account earlier this year in a friendly against Belarus. His performances have put him firmly on the radar of clubs across Europe, with Celtic now thought to be at the front of the queue.
Hearts had been linked with Kenzhebek this week, alongside fellow Kazakh winger Islam Chesnokov, who is expected to join the Edinburgh club on a pre-contract. However, if reports are accurate, Celtic may now have the advantage in securing one of Kazakhstan’s most promising young talents.
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