Celtic are reportedly making good progress in their pursuit of Swedish international Benjamin Nygren, as FC Nordsjælland prepare to lose another of their prized assets.
Nygren, rated at around £2 million, is entering the final months of his contract with the Danish club and could walk away for nothing in January.
Celtic are aiming to avoid a scramble for his signature later in the year by striking an agreement now for a modest transfer fee. His value has risen after impressing for Sweden, netting twice in just three international appearances.
For Nordsjælland, the impending departure of another top talent is a familiar story. The Superliga side have built a strong reputation for identifying and developing young players before selling them on for healthy profits. Former Nordsjælland midfielder Mo Diomande’s £4.3million move to Rangers earlier this year is a recent example of that model in action.
However, the club’s sporting director Phil Radley insists they see value in players contributing heavily on the pitch, even if they eventually leave for free.
He said: (TV2), “There is a lot of focus on FC Nordsjælland’s big transfers. We also have a big history with players who are here until the end of their contract, where they have contributed with 100-200 matches.
“What these players have contributed on the pitch is just as important as the big transfers.”
Nygren’s return to form has certainly been a major plus for Nordsjælland over the past year, but his situation presents Celtic with an opportunity.
Brendan Rodgers remains active in the transfer market as he looks to reshape his squad ahead of another title defence and European campaign. Adding a player with Nygren’s profile, young, international experience, and a reasonable transfer fee, would fit well within the Hoops’ recruitment model.
Talks remain ongoing as Celtic aim to wrap up a deal before other clubs attempt to swoop when Nygren becomes available on a free in January.
