If the report from Croatian outlet Slobodna Dalmacija is believed to be true, Celtic are leading the race for Hajduk Split teenager Mario Vušković. Record Sport revealed the Hoops’ interest in the defender a few days back. However, the news from Croatia must be more encouraging amid interest from Serie A side Torino.
New boss Ange Postecoglou is at work already and has highlighted the necessity of new signings in his first press conference as the Celtic chief.
“We’re hoping we can make some announcements very, very soon. From our point of view, there is some urgency around a couple of positions particularly with this match coming up in four weeks’ time.”
This is what was said by the former Socceroos boss (as quoted by the Scottish Sun), who has begun preparations for the upcoming UEFA Champions League qualifier against Midtjylland. Postecoglou is known for an exciting brand of football, but the squad he has inherited at Parkhead requires serious reconstruction to implement his vision in the long run.
Having joined the academy ranks of Hajduk in his early teenage, the 19-year-old earned his senior debut a couple of years ago. He earned a regular place in the side last season and went on to feature 33 times across all competitions. His growing reputation and a contract until summer 2024 have put the Whites in the driver’s seat prior to transfer negotiations. They have set a valuation in excess of £5m, and the Bhoys, in desperate need of a central defensive ace, have identified the Croatian as Kristoffer Ajer’s successor.
Why Celtic Must Secure The Services Of Vušković
Celtic failed miserably in their title defence as they finished 25 points behind Rangers in the Premiership standings. Their loan move for Shane Duffy was ambitious, but the Brighton & Hove Albion star endured a nightmare north of the border. Christopher Jullien missed months of football with a knee injury, and the crisis in the heart of the backline resulted in Stephen Welsh’s promotion as a regular first-team star alongside Ajer.
Ajer, meanwhile, has rejected the contract extension and is willing to part ways this summer to experience the game in one of Europe’s top leagues after making significant progress in the Hoops colours. This would leave a massive void considering his 111 league appearances over the past four campaigns. Celtic, therefore, have switched their sights on Mario Vušković, who has certain similarities with the wantaway Norwegian.
Like Ajer, the Croatia U21 star was shifted to central defence from a deep-lying midfield role. His aerial ability and passing attribute should make him a success once he attunes to the aggression and demand of Scottish football.
