Celtic were among those linked with a move for Mariano Diaz.
According to a report in Estadio Deportivo, Sevilla are closing in on signing Mariano Diaz in a deal worth £36 million, as they remain locked in negotiations with his current club Lyon.
The talented striker, commonly known as Mariano, has only been with the French club for one season, with Lyon beating off several competitors for his signature 14 months ago – with one of those reported to be Celtic. According to a report in the Mirror in June 2017, Scottish Premiership champions Celtic were said to be among those in the hunt to sign Mariano following his terrific campaign for the Real Madrid B team.
Diaz netted 27 goals in 33 games for Madrid’s B team, before going to represent the senior side 14 times in all competitions during the 2016-17 campaign, scoring five goals.
Despite reported interest from Celtic, Mariano ended up signing for Lyon for a reported £7 million fee (Get French Football News) – and what a bargain that now has turned out to be.
The Spanish ace scored 21 goals in 45 games for Lyon last season in all competitions, and now Estadio Deportivo claim Sevilla are intent on signing him even if it costs them a club record transfer fee.
Celtic may have picked up bargains in Moussa Dembele and Odsonne Edouard, but the Hoops may regret missing out on Mariano – considering how good he has become since leaving the Spanish capital.
Sevilla are among those challenging for a top four place in La Liga, and with Mariano spearheading their attack, perhaps they will feel they have the edge in the race for that last champions League spot.
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