Everton boss David Moyes is reportedly set to hijack Celtic’s move for highly-rated Red Star Belgrade defender Veljko Milosavljevic. The 17-year-old centre-back, who the Hoops are said to be very interested in, is set to decide on his future in the coming weeks amid growing interest from multiple clubs.
Serbian publication Kurir report that Everton are also interested in signing Milosavljevic, adding competition at the heart of defence, with the future looking bright for the young centre-back.
With Liam Scales falling short against Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday—playing a huge role in Cyriel Dessers’ opener—and Auston Trusty failing to maintain the consistency required to start week in, week out, Celtic look set to return to the market this summer in search of yet another partner for Cameron Carter-Vickers.
A 17-year-old defender would certainly be a risky choice; however, it would be a signing made a stage ahead of joining Europe’s elite.
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Celtic are ‘very interested’ in Red Star Belgrade centre-back Veljko Milosavljević.
One of the Serbian clubs youngest ever debutants he has made 13 appearances this season & turns 18 next month.
[@maxbetsport] pic.twitter.com/k1uPsRdbmk— Everything Celtic (@aboutceltic) May 6, 2025
Celtic have historically shown a willingness to invest in young players with high potential, and Milosavljevic could represent a long-term solution if nurtured properly.
Given the fact that Milosavljevic is 6’4″, he is certainly physically imposing for such a young player and could develop into a top-class defender at Celtic under Brendan Rodgers.
It would represent a different approach from last summer, when Celtic paid a reported £6 million for Auston Trusty, and the summer before, spending £4.3 million on Maik Nawrocki and £3 million on Gustaf Lagerbielke. Put simply, Celtic have failed to replace Carl Starfelt’s consistency alongside Carter-Vickers—an issue that has become increasingly clear in recent months.
Celtic supporters will be hopeful that if the Hoops do sign a centre-back this summer, it’s a ready-made replacement. However, given that none of the three previously mentioned players—despite decent CVs before joining—have been able to step up on a weekly basis, there’s understandable caution.
