Celtic value Sheffield United defender George Baldock at £5 million and no more as the Scottish giants appear to move on from Ange Postecoglou’s first-choice right-back, as reported by Yorkshire Live.
While Postecoglou’s first two signings as Hoops boss have arrived from far flung corners of the globe – Liel Abada rocking up after making his name in Israeli football while Kyogo Furuhashi has followed the manager from Japan – the former Australia boss is still keen to build a Celtic side on a foundation of proven, British-based performers.
27-year-old Baldock rapidly emerged as Postecoglou’s number one right-back target recently, according to The Star, with many at Celtic believing his experience, tenacity and knowledge of the British game meant he could make an immediate impact north of the border.
But while the Glasgow giants have a mixed record when it comes to bringing in players for bargain fees from less familiar markets, a player with a proven track record in the top two tiers of English football was never going to come cheap.
Celtic set limit on George Baldock fee
According to Yorkshire Live, Celtic value Baldock at £5 million.
However, Sheffield United are understood to want closer to £8 million for the one-time Oxford man.
Celtic haven’t made a bid for Baldock, perhaps thinking offering £3 million less than the Blades want for a long-serving fans’ favourite would be futile.
There’s certainly more value to be found in mainland Europe but, as Postecoglou has discovered, finding an alternative right-back is proving easier said than done.
According to L’Equipe, Rennes defender Sacha Boey has turned down a move to Scotland while Celtic recently called off negotiations to sign Sporting Lisbon’s Valentin Rosier after discovering he has his heart set on Besiktas.
Brandon Soppy has also been linked and at £4 million would cost a lot less than Baldock. The Rennes youngster also has Premier League admirers in the shape of Watford (L’Equipe).
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