Celtic reportedly unwilling to meet Hibs’ asking price for Chaiwa, according to rumors.

Celtic Still Interested in Miguel Chaiwa

Celtic remain determined to strengthen their midfield this summer and continue to monitor Hibernian midfielder Miguel Chaiwa. The Scottish champions are understood to value the Zambia international highly and are prepared to increase their efforts to secure his signature before the transfer window closes.

However, while the Hoops are willing to invest significantly in the 22-year-old, they are not prepared to match Hibernian’s reported valuation. Celtic are believed to view a fee of around £5 million as a fair offer, whereas Hibs are holding firm in their demand for approximately £7 million. The difference in valuation means negotiations could continue for some time, with both clubs hoping to reach a compromise if a transfer is to materialise.

Chaiwa has impressed with his performances and is regarded as one of the brightest midfield talents in Scottish football. Celtic believe he possesses the qualities required to strengthen Brendan Rodgers’ squad, but they remain cautious about exceeding their transfer budget for the player.

Fresh Move Planned for Zinedin Smajlovic

Alongside their pursuit of Chaiwa, Celtic are expected to renew their interest in Sandefjord defender Zinedin Smajlovic. The Scottish champions recently saw an offer worth around £3.5 million rejected by the Norwegian club, but they have not abandoned their pursuit.

Club officials are reportedly preparing an improved proposal in the hope of persuading Sandefjord to part with the Bosnia and Herzegovina international. Celtic view Smajlovic as an important defensive target and believe he could strengthen their back line ahead of the new campaign.

Although the opening bid fell short of Sandefjord’s expectations, there is confidence that further negotiations could eventually produce an agreement. The defender remains firmly on Celtic’s shortlist as they continue working to reinforce multiple areas of the squad.

Iheanacho’s Celtic Future Comes to an End

Meanwhile, Kelechi Iheanacho will not be extending his stay with Celtic after the option to retain the striker for another season officially expired.

The Nigerian forward is now training independently in his homeland while considering the next stage of his career. With the agreement no longer in place, Iheanacho is expected to explore alternative opportunities away from Glasgow.

His departure leaves Celtic with another attacking position to assess as they continue their recruitment plans before the new season begins.

Real Betis Join Race for Nicolas Raskin

Across Glasgow, Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin is attracting growing interest from abroad. Spanish side Real Betis have emerged as the latest club to monitor the Belgian as they prepare for potential changes within their own midfield.

Betis are believed to be identifying replacements for Dani Ceballos, who is widely expected to leave the club during the current transfer window. Raskin has reportedly been identified as one of several candidates capable of filling that role.

The Belgian’s consistent performances have enhanced his reputation, and Rangers could face increasing competition to retain one of their key midfield players if further clubs join the race.

Rangers Consider Goalkeeper Swap Deal

Rangers are also exploring possible business involving their goalkeeping department. Reports suggest the Ibrox club would be willing to consider a straight swap agreement with Hull City involving Jack Butland and Ivor Pandur.

Such a move would represent an unusual piece of transfer business, with both clubs potentially strengthening their squads without a traditional transfer fee changing hands.

Whether discussions progress into a formal agreement remains uncertain, but the possibility highlights Rangers’ willingness to consider creative solutions during the summer transfer window.

Aberdeen Closing In on Moroccan Striker

Elsewhere in the Scottish Premiership, Aberdeen are making encouraging progress in their pursuit of Moroccan forward Ayoub Mouloua.

The Dons are understood to be nearing an agreement with FUS Rabat for the 23-year-old striker. If completed, the deal would provide Aberdeen with another attacking option as they continue strengthening their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Club officials are optimistic that negotiations can be finalised soon, allowing the player to join preparations before competitive football resumes.

Chris Sutton Voices Celtic Frustration

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has publicly criticised the club’s transfer activity, expressing disappointment over the lack of new arrivals.

Speaking on The Warm-up podcast, Sutton described the current situation as “a mess,” suggesting Celtic have not moved quickly enough in the transfer market despite obvious areas requiring reinforcement.

His comments reflect growing frustration among sections of the support, many of whom are eager to see the club complete new signings before the campaign begins. While Celtic continue negotiating for several targets, supporters will be hoping concrete deals are finalised sooner rather than later as preparations for the new season gather pace.

If you want exactly 800 words, I can also produce a version that is precisely 800 words long.