Celtic’s reported move for Louis Munteanu looks to have stalled, with CFR Cluj’s owner Nelutu Varga claiming a French club is now leading the race for the striker.
That offer was reportedly turned down, and while there was speculation about Celtic’s intentions, Nelutu Varga has made it clear the most concrete approach has come from Ligue 1. Talks are now at an advanced stage, with a medical being lined up in the coming days.
Varga stopped short of naming the French side but stressed their professionalism and discretion in handling the deal. He also confirmed that interest from Spain has cooled after clubs there failed to meet the asking price.
His comments suggest the Romanian side are close to finalising a deal, and unless something changes dramatically, Munteanu will be heading to France rather than Glasgow.
He said: (fanatik.io), “It’s a club in France that, up until now, is the most serious in terms of professionalism.
“I understand that they will resolve some issues these days, then we will sit down at the negotiating table, so that the boy can go for a medical examination.
“I never mentioned the name of the club. I only said France. I only said that it is a top team from France. I don’t know who checked what.
“I didn’t mention any names. It is about a concrete interest from France and from Spain, but the Spaniards gave up because they didn’t reach the amount I asked for. In pole position is France.
“I know clearly what offer we have, what discussions we have, and I know very clearly that that club asked me not to talk.
“That’s why I’m not talking. I’m not interested in advertising. I’m interested in doing our job. Both we and they have a common goal: not to distort the information.
“We don’t want anything to be published before everything is done by the book, professionally. At no big club in this world is there any talk before a transfer is made. They prepare, they do things silently, and when they sign, they announce it.”
It’s another reminder of the competition Celtic face in the market, particularly when it comes to rising talents with strong goal records. Munteanu’s form last season made him a hot prospect, and Cluj have been in no rush to sell without the right deal.
For Celtic, attention may now shift elsewhere as Brendan Rodgers continues to strengthen his forward options ahead of the new campaign. The pursuit of a striker remains a key focus.
Munteanu, meanwhile, looks set to test himself in one of Europe’s top five leagues, with Cluj preparing to close the deal quietly and professionally behind the scenes.
