Celtic were first linked with the Croatian defender at the start of the year.
Celtic are still pursuing Filip Benkovic, despite the Dinamo Zagreb defender’s reported £17 million price tag, according to the Scottish Sun.
Celtic were first linked with Benkovic – in whom Newcastle United, West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham Hotspur have also been credited with interest – at the start of the year and again in the summer transfer window.
However, the Bhoys were reportedly put off by the Croatians’ asking price for the player, who is under contract until 2022.
Nevertheless, it is claimed that Benkovic was watched by Celtic in action against Hadjuk Split at the weekend – a game in which he scored an 87th minute equaliser – with Brendan Rodgers’ side said to have ‘stepped up their interest’.
Celtic have often found themselves short of centre-backs since Kolo Toure’s release earlier this year, with Dedryck Boyata, Erik Sviatchenko and Jozo Simunovic each spending time on the sidelines.
However, any move for Benkovic is likely to see the Scottish champions smash their current transfer record, which stands at £6 million.
Could Celtic break the bank for Benkovic?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
