In an ideal world, the one-time Celtic target would have left his former club in less ‘devastating’ circumstances.
But, as is the harsh reality of the modern game, the piranhas have wasted little time in stripping the flesh from the boney carcass that used to be FC Girondins de Bordeaux.
After years of financial problems – and following a failed takeover by Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group – one of the most historic clubs in French football were forced to give up their professional status while terminating the contracts of every single member of their squad, per Sud Ouest.
As a result, a striker who joined Bordeaux in a £2.4 million deal just over 12 months ago now departs for nothing.
Zan Vipotnik scored 10 goals and provided four assists in what would prove to be his one and only full season at the 2009 Ligue 1 champions.
Celtic once tried to sign Swansea City newbie Zan Vipotnik
The Slovenia international was confirmed as a Swansea City player this week.
And considering that Celtic held an interest not so long ago – The Hoops are still in the market for centre-forward a year on from Vipotnik’s switch from Maribor to Bordeaux – one wonders whether Brendan Rodgers’ side were tempted to renew their interest before the Slovenia international took his impressive poaching skills to South Wales.
“Yes, there is interest from Celtic for a summer transfer,” Vipotnik’s agent, Sasa Zupan, told Football Scotland back in 2023. “There a lot of clubs who want to sign Zan when the window opens.”
Vipotnik, at the time, was coming off the back of an exceptional 20-goal season at Maribor.
If he can get anywhere near those numbers for Swansea – Luke Williams’ mid-table outfit are yet to replace former talisman Joel Piroe following his move to Leeds United – then Vipotnik could prove to be one of the signings of the summer in the EFL.
Adam Idah and Lawrence Shankland are targets
“Heartbroken to say goodbye under these circumstances,” Vipotnik wrote on Instagram when saying a tear-jerking farewell to tragic Bordeaux.
“My time at Bordeaux has been nothing short of incredible, thanks to this amazing club and the passionate fans who welcomed me with open arms.
“It’s devastating to see the club facing such challenges, but I believe in the spirit of Bordeaux and I know it will rise again.
“Until we meet again.”
Celtic, HITC understands, are still hot on the heels of number nines heading into the final month of the window.
Interest in last season’s loan star Adam Idah remains, even after The Hoops’ opening offer of £4 million fell well short of Norwich City’s demands.
HITC reports that Celtic have now lodged an enquiry for Hearts captain and Premiership Golden Boot winner Lawrence Shankland.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
