If a report from the Croatian outlet Index is believed to be true, Celtic are keen on Gorica winger Kristijan Lovric. The 25-year-old was stupendous last season in the attacking third and the Hoops are likely to be rivalled by the Serie A side Hellas Verona over a potential summer transfer.
A great run of form earned Lovrić his Croatia debut earlier this year. Although he could not impress enough at Lokomotiva, a loan spell to Kustošija in the second tier witnessed a surge of form. Gorica secured his services back in the summer of 2018 and the attacker continued his excellence down the wing, this time in the top flight of Croatian football.
Although there was an interest from Dynamo Kyiv during the winter window, the Ukrainian hotshots are unlikely to reignite the chase in the coming days. The player himself dropped a major hint by following the Hoops on Instagram just over a week ago and the report from his homeland has refuelled speculations considering their ongoing transition under Ange Postecoglou.
The rumours, however, have been there for long. Celtic are scouting the Croatian for around a couple of years and might finally rope him in following Mohamed Elyounoussi’s return to Southampton after a two-year Parkhead loan.
Have been advised Celtic were at the cup game on Weds scouting Kristijan Lovric as long term left winger beyond Elyounoussi.
— Richard Wilson (@timomouse) November 1, 2019
The Bhoys have already snapped up an array of new names including two wide forwards in Kyogo Furuhashi and Liel Abada. The latter fired in on his debut in their 1-1 draw against Midtjylland in the Champions League qualifier, but the lack of options on the left remains a major concern.
Why Celtic Must Rope In Lovric
Wantaway Ryan Christie impressed last week, but the club might eventually lose him this summer amid transfer links. Mikey Johnston is not ready yet to take charge and deliver week in week out, and therefore, the arrival of Lovrić would restore the balance due to his flexibility across the frontline.
The Vatreni star netted 18 goals and laid on 7 more in 32 appearances last season in all competitions (stats via Transfermarket). His efficiency as an inverted winger has been observed on quite a few occasions and Postecoglou, known for his attacking brand and wing-based build-ups, would like to deploy him from the left to utilize his footwork, dribbling and scoring traits. It’s time for Celtic to step up the chase and get the deal done ahead of the other suitors.
