Niko Sigur ‘to Celtic’ transfer claim emerges as fresh competition enters race

Former professional striker Łukasz Gikiewicz claims an agreement is already in place for the Canada international to move to Parkhead following Hajduk’s European clash with Raków Częstochowa.

Gikiewicz, who lives in Split and now works as a television pundit and commentator, made the claim on Wednesday morning.

Translated into English, he wrote: “Two outgoing transfers after Thursday’s match in Częstochowa agreed. Rokas Pukštas to Middlesbrough. Niko Sigur to Celtic.”

The 22-year-old has been on Celtic’s radar for some time as Martin O’Neill looks to strengthen his squad following the disastrous Champions League exit to LASK.

However, less than two hours after Gikiewicz’s claim, reports in Croatia revealed that Genk had entered the race with an offer worth around €4million.

That figure is understood to be close to Hajduk’s valuation of Sigur, although the Belgian club’s proposal has not yet been accepted.

Toulouse have also been pushing for the versatile midfielder, with Hajduk previously rejecting an opening €3m offer. The French club are reportedly prepared to offer Sigur more lucrative personal terms.

Hajduk are expected to properly consider the proposals on the table once Thursday’s European fixture against Raków is out of the way.

Gikiewicz’s claim would suggest Celtic are further down the road than has previously been reported, but there has yet to be any indication in Croatia that the Hoops have submitted a formal bid.