Celtic are reportedly still in the running to sign Louis Munteanu despite claims in France that Rennes have agreed a £10.5 million fee with CFR Cluj.
Reports suggest the French side’s offer had been accepted, but Cluj say no deal has been done yet.
The Hoops are understood to have made their own bid, which Cluj turned down. Even so, the deal is still alive, with the Romanian club expecting more approaches before the transfer window closes.
The 23-year-old striker, who has played for Romania at senior level, has missed training ahead of Cluj’s Europa League qualifier against Lugano. His absence has only added to the belief that he could leave before the deadline.
Cluj manager Dan Petrescu says Munteanu’s future is unclear and has stressed that tonight’s European qualifier will come before any decision on a move.
He said: (RecordSport), “I want to stop Munteanu to help us on Thursday.
“After that, if something happens, he can leave at any time. It would be better if he stays at least until Thursday, if he transfers.”
Petrescu’s comments show that a move to France is still possible, but Munteanu’s next club has not been decided. That means Celtic could still come back with a better bid if they want to push harder to sign him.
Right now, the striker is in action for Cluj against Lugano in the Europa League second-round qualifier. The tie is in extra time at 0-0 on aggregate after two legs, with his future still hanging in the balance.
Whether Celtic return with another bid will depend on how strongly Brendan Rodgers feels he needs to add another striker before the window shuts.
