According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid are now plotting a bid for Aurelio Buta, who came close to joining Celtic over the summer.
What’s the story?
Well, back in August, the Daily Record revealed that Celtic’s £3m bid for Buta had been accepted by Royal Antwerp.
Only personal terms were left to iron out, although the deal collapsed.
Now, it seems Ange Postecoglou may have missed out on a top player, as one of Europe’s greatest sides begin to circle around him.
Defensa Central believe Real Madrid want Trent Alexander-Arnold above all, but Buta is on their shortlist of alternatives.
The 24-year-old has made 12 appearances so far this season, registering two assists.
After the move to Parkhead fell through, Celtic opted to sign Josip Juranović instead.
Did Celtic miss out on a gem in Aurelio Buta?
Real Madrid don’t just sign anyone, so it speaks volumes that Buta is on their shortlist of targets.
In that respect, you could argue that Celtic made a huge mistake in failing to bring him to Paradise.
However, in Juranović, the Bhoys have found a quality right-back who eases the pain of the Buta deal falling through.
To look on the positive side, the fact Real Madrid are interested in Buta is testament to Celtic’s recruitment team.
They identified a cheap, exciting option who is now being watched by a club some would describe as the biggest on the planet.
Hopefully next time, the Hoops seal the deal before European giants muscle their way in on proceedings.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
