Celtic chase Saracchi deal as Smajlovic bids rejected

Celtic are intensifying negotiations to sign Marcelo Saracchi permanently after his loan spell, while their bids for centre‑back Zinedin Smajlovic have been turned down. Sandefjord, the Norwegian club that owns Smajlovic, demands close to £4.3 million for the 22‑year‑old in the upcoming transfer window. Both Celtic and Greek side Olympiacos submitted offers of £3.5 million, which Sandefjord rejected. The club insists on a valuation nearer to £4.3 million for the defender. Marcelo Saracchi made 27 appearances on loan at Celtic last term. Head coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena told him he is not in his plans, prompting Celtic to pursue a permanent deal with Boca Juniors.

Dutch media hail 5-1 World Cup win over Sweden, global shock at Koeman’s side

Soufiane El‑Faouzi is set to sign a new contract with Schalke that runs until 2030. The deal will grant the 23‑year‑old midfielder an annual salary of nearly £1 million. Go Ahead Eagles technical director Marc van Hintum said the club will not block a move if Celtic present a good offer for Jakob Breum. Celtic’s earlier bid in January was unsuccessful, but the Dutch side would consider offers around £4 million for the 22‑year‑old attacking midfielder. Celtic will assemble a squad of around 21 players for initial pre‑season training on Friday. A number of squad members will remain at the World Cup before joining the camp.