Celtic given encouragement in record-breaking Ermin Mahmic pursuit

Celtic have been given encouragement in their pursuit of Slovan Liberec rising star Ermin Mahmic after he rejected offers from two Europeans clubs, sources have told Football Insider.

The Hoops are exploring a deal for the 21-year-old attacking midfielder ahead of a potential move.

The Czech side are demanding between £6million and £6.8m for the attacker as the race for his signature hots up.

If this asking price is met, it would make Mahmic the most expensive player to leave the Czech league outside of the top three clubs.

As it stands, Celtic are waiting, as they have other options on their shortlist in the same position.

Last season, Mahmic made 28 appearances in the Czech top-flight, where he netted seven times and picked up three assists.

Celtic face battle for Ermin Mahmic 

Celtic will need to fend off some serious competition to win Mahmic’s signature.

Besiktas have also been eyeing a deal for the youngster. However, it is said that this destination does not look realistic at the moment.

On top of this, Basel and Red Bull Salzburg have also shown interest in the Bosnia and Herzegovina international, and placed bids for the youngster, but the attacking midfielder turned down these opportunities.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen where Mahmic will end up playing his football for the majority of the 2026-27 campaign, as the transfer deadline day closes in.

What other deals could Celtic complete this summer?

Football Insider has exclusively revealed that West Ham United are confident of agreeing a deal to sign Arne Engels from Celtic this summer.

Negotiations are ongoing for the 22-year-old, who has already agreed on personal terms with the Championship side.

The Hammers have already seen two offers rejected by the Hoops for the midfielder, with a third bid set to exceed £25m.

Celtic are hopeful of getting around £30m for Engels, who has proven to be a vital player at the club in recent years.

Last season, the 22-year-old was key to the Hoops’ domestic double success in what was a dramatic end to the campaign.

However, it remains to be seen if Engels does depart Parkhead over the coming weeks as Martin O’Neill looks to guide the club to further success.