Celtic manager Martin O'Neill pumps his fist
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Celtic could be about to pull off ‘brilliant’ Ermin Mahmic deal

Jack Dawson

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Ermin Mahmic has emerged as Celtic’s latest transfer target this summer as they look to pry the rising star away from Slovan Liberec.

The 21-year-old attacking midfielder is believed to be an option the Hoops are exploring the final weeks of the transfer window.

The Czech outfit are set to demand between £6million and £6.8m for his services this summer, with plenty of clubs interested in the youngster.

Much of this is due to his recent performances in both Czechia and the 2026 World Cup, with Mahmic being a major star for Bosnia and Herzegovina in the summer tournament.

Overall, he made three appearances as the Balkan side reached the round of 32 and scored twice.

Many of Mahmic's stats were already eye-catching going into the summer tournament and, and his goal against Switzerland showed the world just how good he is.

How good is Ermin Mahmic?

The attacking midfielder proved to be one of the most consistent attacking players in Czechia last season and caused defenders all types of problems.

According to Fotmob, he averaged 0.41 goals, 4.00 shots, 1.27 shots on target, 0.17 assists, 2.03 chances created, 0.29 big chances created and 1.74 successful crosses, with a 30.6 per cent overall success rate in the top-flight.

When comparing this to Celtic players such as Benjamin Nygren, Mahmic is not too far off the star.

Overall, the Hoops player averaged 0.57 goals, 3.26 shots, 1.35 shots on target, 0.18 assists, 2.05 chances created, 0.28 big chances created and 1.06 successful crosses, with a 33.3 per cent overall success rate.

Mahmic’s form in Czechia then helped him get into Bosnia and Herzegovina's squad for the 2026 World Cup, where he continued to put on a show.

His best moment easily came when he netted a wonder volley against Switzerland during their 4-1 defeat.

This earned the praise of Clinton Morrison, who was amazed at the strike from the youngster.

He told BBC Sport on 18 June: “What a strike from Ermin Mahmic - it's brilliant.

“You look at all of these substitutes that have come on and made an impact, you're thinking why aren't they starting?

“Mahmic gives Gregor Kobel no chance.”

Therefore, if inFotbal.cz’s report is correct, the Hoops could have a potential bargain on their hands.

Martin O’Neill has wanted to reinforce his attack this summer, and could be set to sign a top player who has the potential to develop further.

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill pumps his fist
Celtic fans will love what John Terry has said about Landon Emenalo as deal is eyed

Who else are Celtic looking to sign this summer?

Celtic have also been heavily linked with Chelsea’s Landon Emenalo in recent days.

The left-back has reportedly had a tour of the training ground and Celtic Park ahead of a potential loan move.

The Hoops are in desperate need of a new left-back this summer to be an understudy for Kieran Tierney.

However, it remains to be seen if the club can get a deal over the line in the coming weeks, as O’Neill looks to make the final few tweaks to his squad.

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