Celtic’s move for Romanian striker Louis Munteanu has stalled after CFR Cluj turned down a £6.9 million offer for the 23-year-old. The Romanian club’s owner, Nelutu Varga, has set a much higher asking price of €18 million, which is over £15 million.
That figure has put Celtic well off the pace and raised real doubts about whether the transfer will go ahead this summer.
Brendan Rodgers is looking to add more options up front, and Munteanu became a real target after an impressive campaign in Romania.
But Cluj’s firm stance has left the deal hanging, and reports now claim a French club has jumped to the front of the queue for the striker. Celtic’s bid was a solid one but didn’t even come close to what Cluj want just to start proper talks.
Cluj manager Dan Petrescu has spoken highly of Munteanu during the ongoing speculation. The player is still involved with the squad and hasn’t pushed for a move, though it’s clear a transfer could still happen. Celtic now have to decide if they’re willing to increase their offer or walk away and look elsewhere as the transfer window continues to tick down.
Celtic chiefs have shown they’re not afraid to spend, but Cluj’s price tag would make Munteanu the most expensive signing in the club’s history.
Petrescu said: (RecordSport), “I spoke to the player, the boy’s behaviour is beyond my expectations, I tell you honestly.
“He’s very serious, he wants to play, he doesn’t think he’s going to get injured. I was afraid to put him in, if he really has an offer, but he wants to play.
“I want Louis Munteanu to stay, but if he has a very good offer, I wish him luck.”
Munteanu is rated highly at Celtic, but the club are not expected to rip up their wage or transfer model for a player who hasn’t yet proven himself at a higher level.
Rodgers and his recruitment staff also have to consider the risk of waiting too long on one option, especially with important Champions League qualifiers just around the corner.
Munteanu fits the style Celtic are after, but they can’t get dragged into a long bidding battle with clubs who have much bigger budgets.
There’s still a small chance Cluj lower their demands or Munteanu himself tries to push through a move.
But without a clear change in the situation, Celtic may have to switch focus and look elsewhere for the attacking options Rodgers wants for the new campaign.
