Hibernian are set to frustrate Ange Postecoglou as the Celtic coach explores the transfer of Kevin Nisbet. The striker is a target of the Bhoys as Giorgos Giakoumakis nears a departure.
That is according to the Daily Record, which reports the Hoops will look to test Hibs’ resolve to sign Nisbet. Postecoglou appreciates what the 25-year-old could bring to Parkhead after scoring seven goals this term. He has also laid on an assist in just six Premiership fixtures.
Nisbet returned from a cruciate ligament rupture in December and has found a rich vein of form immediately. Now, Celtic are reviving their former interest in the forward as the club prepares for Giakoumakis to leave. The Greece star did not feature in training on Tuesday.
Yet while Nisbet is of interest to Celtic, Hibernian are extremely loath to grant any transfer for the striker. Easter Road chiefs do not want to sell the Glasgow-born marksman for any price in January. But the Hoops will try to test their resolve if Giakoumakis does indeed go.
Celtic are examining Kevin Nisbet’s suitability for a transfer from Hibernian
Giakoumakis is still weighing up his options to leave Celtic amid a raft of interest in the 28-year-old. Sky Sports reports the forward is undecided on a move to Urawa Red Diamonds. The Hoops have already agreed on a fee with the J-League side for him at an upfront £3m.
But MLS franchise Atlanta United are also keen on a swoop. Gianluca Di Marzio also noted recently that Giakoumakis has agreed to personal terms with Serie A side Sampdoria. Ligue 2 promotion-hopefuls Bordeaux have also offered Celtic €2.5-3m (£2-2.5m), per L’Equipe.
If Giakoumakis accepts one of the offers, Celtic will likely advance their interest in Nisbet’s transfer from Hibernian. The Scottish Sun also cites the 10-cap Scotland star as a target and that the Hoops’ transfer team are seeing if Nisbet is fit enough for Postecoglou’s style.
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