Scottish Premiership champions Celtic appear to have stolen a march on Premier League duo Tottenham Hotspur and Everton by bidding for the Bestikas ace.
Dusko Tosic could yet make a return to England this month.
The Serbian international defender failed to make any sort of an impression during forgettable spells at QPR and Portsmouth, but his superb form at Turkish Super Lig champions Besiktas has seen the veteran defender become a shock transfer target this month.
And Turkish paper Vatan (25th December, page 18) reported that a move to Britain looked likely after Besiktas signed Domagoj Vida as his replacement.
Tottenham Hotspur have also been heavily linked in a player who shone in the Champions League group stages this season, potentially offering more depth and experience to Mauricio Pochettino’s back line as they aim to fight on domestic and European fronts.
But it seems that Scottish champions Celtic have now taken a major step forward in the pursuit of Tosic.
Because Aksam is reporting that the Hoops have made an offer of around £2.5 million. Besiktas have rejected the bid but may be willing to accept if Celtic raise their fee to £3.5 million.
Celtic are understood to be in the market for another centre-back this month after Erik Sviatchenko joined FC Midtjylland on loan and Tosic, like Marvin Compper, would offer plenty of European experience to a side hoping to improve their displays on the continent.
Aksam also reports that West Ham have joined the list of Premier League clubs interested in Tosic, so there is the possibility of an intriguing London clash between the Hammers and bitter rivals Tottenham.
West Ham boss David Moyes prides himself on an organised back line and Tosic’s uncompromising style could make him a good fit.
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