Rangers face fresh competition in the race for Swedish defender Zinedin Smajlovic after Celtic reportedly returned with an improved offer for the highly rated centre-back.
Martin O'Neill's Hoops have submitted a package worth €4.5 million up front, with a further €2 million available in potential bonuses for the 22-year-old, as they look to convince Sandefjord to part ways with one of their most sought-after young defenders.
However, the Norwegian club are under no pressure to sell, with a growing list of European sides tracking Smajlovic and making enquiries over a possible move.
Rangers are among the clubs monitoring the situation, with Olympiacos, Hull City, Fenerbahce, Toulouse, Feyenoord and Lyon also believed to be keeping tabs on the defender.
The Ibrox side’s interest comes as they continue to assess options to strengthen their defensive ranks, with Smajlovic fitting the profile of a player who could provide both immediate competition and long-term value.
The reported €6.5m total package would represent a major investment, but the Norwegian side appear confident that further interest could drive up the defender’s value.
The situation will be one to watch closely for Derek McInnes. Losing out on a player they have identified as a potential target to their city rivals would be a frustration, particularly with several clubs now circling – including their city rivals.
Rangers at present only have two recognised first-team central defenders in Emmanuel Fernandez and John Souttar.
Both Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius returned to their parent clubs in the summer after spending last season on loan at Ibrox.
Souttar is in North America with Scotland at the World Cup meaning that only Fernandez will be present when the Gers reunite for pre-season this week.
Fernandez has been linked with big money moves to the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen throughout his first season at Ibrox but the club are not looking to part with the 24-year-old former Peterborough stopper this window.
McInnes remains interested in several central defenders, but he may need to look elsewhere if Smajlovic moves across the city to Celtic Park.
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