Celtic are reportedly once again eyeing a move for David Strelec, with the Slovan Bratislava striker back on the radar following the Slovakian side’s exit from European competition.

The 24-year-old had been a January target for the Parkhead club, and talks could now resume as both Glasgow sides show interest before the window closes.

The striker’s father, Milan Strelec, has told Slovakian media that Celtic and Middlesbrough remain keen on the forward, while reports in Slovakia have also linked the Ibrox club with a possible move.

Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that adding another forward remains a priority this summer. Adam Idah is currently leading the line for the champions, with Shin Yamada and Johnny Kenny competing for minutes. But with a number of key goalscorers moving on in recent windows, Celtic are still looking to boost their attacking options.

In January, Celtic reportedly offered £8 million for Strelec, but Slovan held firm in their £9.5 million valuation. That stance softened after their recent Champions League qualifier defeat to Kairat Almaty, which knocked them out of the competition and cleared the way for potential departures.

He said: (Sport 24), “While Slovan was in the race for promotion to the Champions League, the club’s management did not consider David’s transfer, or rather, it was not on the agenda.

“I assume that in the coming days until August 31, when the transfer period ends, the ice will move in the direction of a departure and things will get hotter around David.

“As far as I know, several clubs are interested, including Celtic and Middlesborough, which were also interested in him in the recent past. I myself am curious how it will ultimately turn out.”

Celtic have already shown their intent and with Slovan now more open to a deal it is possible they could revisit the terms of their original offer. The player’s profile fits the club’s long-term model: young, technically gifted and with European experience.

The added twist comes from across the city with reports suggesting that Rangers are now tracking Strelec too. With both sides in need of attacking reinforcements the coming weeks could see the battle for the Slovakian striker intensify.

Strelec remains under contract but the noise around his future is growing. Celtic’s interest never truly faded and now they may have to move quickly to get it over the line.