Hajduk Split ready to accept new Celtic offer for Niko Sigur after ‘massive’ update
Hajduk Split are ready to let Niko Sigur leave amid interest from Celtic after their progression to the Conference League proper, sources have told Football Insider.
Sigur, 22, remains on the Hoops' radar as Martin O'Neill looks to bolster his midfield ranks before the transfer window shuts in Scotland next week.
The Hajduk star has been a Celtic target for several weeks but they are yet to submit an offer for his services.
He has been forced to stay with the Croatian club until now to feature in their Conference League qualification campaign, which proved successful as they progressed past Rakow Czestochowa on Thursday night.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Hajduk will now allow Sigur to leave the club as Celtic continue to track his availability alongside other European clubs.
They are set to face stern competition for his services, with Genk reportedly emerging as late suitors.
Celtic can swoop for Niko Sigur as Hajduk prepare to accept offer
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Sigur should be available for less than £4million, with Celtic eyeing cut-price moves after they missed out on qualifying for the Champions League proper.
The Canadian international can feature in holding midfield or at right-back, and has made 121 appearances for Hajduk since his senior debut in 2023.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "I think that's a deal that they could potentially get over the line. He's been a long-term target for Celtic throughout the summer. They even looked at him in the last January window.
"Sigur is a player who won't cost a massive amount as well. He's only got two years left in his contract at Hajduk Split and I think the club are ready to sanction his potential move. They wanted to keep him for their European tie to see if they could qualify for the Conference League."
What has the Hajduk manager said about Sigur leaving?
Sigur helped Hajduk qualify for proper European competition for the first time since 2010-11 as they beat Rakow 3-2 on Thursday night.
His current boss, Gonzalez Garcia, has confirmed that the 22-year-old's exit is likely imminent now that they have progressed through to the Conference League league phase.
Speaking after the game, he said: "We cried together in the dressing room with Niko Sigur. I think this is the best way for someone to leave. He was very emotional, along with Rokas Pukstas, because they are both probably leaving. Niko gave an inspirational talk to his teammates before the start of extra time too. I'm proud of how he and Rokas fought for the team."