The Hoops are said to lose out on Hibernian midfielder John McGinn unless they cough out close to £4million.
The Hibs have rejected two bids from the Scottish Champions, of which the second is believed to be £1.75m after their first offer of £1.5m, which is understood to be below Hibs valuation of the player, who have seen the sale of Scott Brown as an example in negotiations.
Scott Brown joined Celtic in a deal worth £4.5m in the summer of 2007 with 134 first team appearances under his name, while John McGinn, has played for the Hibs 132 times and 10 times for Scotland.
Hibs are said to be conscious that 33 per cent of any transfer fee will go to the midfielder’s former club St Mirren, as part of his £160,000 move from the Buddies three years ago.
The 23-year-old Scottish midfielder didn’t play for Hibernian completely in their 6-1 Europa League qualifier win over Runavik on Wednesday.
The Hib’s manager Neil Lennon said, (John’s thigh was heavily strapped yesterday. I know there will be conspiracy theories. Fine, I get that, but I’m in control of this. He wasn’t 100 per cent physically, or mentally. But if he’s fit to play next week he’ll start in the Faroes).
However, there have been inquiries from some clubs in the English Premier League who are eager to make their move soon if Celtic fails, as it’s believed the player has his heart set on joining the Hoops.
It’s believed that Hibs have no desire to block the players wish, but if no club meets their asking price they will be willing to keep McGinn for the season ahead and allow him to leave on a free rather than be forced to sale below their valuation.