Celtic have submitted a new improved offer for highly-rated Sandefjord centre-back Zinedin Smajlovic, with discussions between the clubs described as “ongoing”. The Scottish Premiership champions are determined to strengthen their defensive options this summer and view the 22-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international as a key target.
This latest bid comes after Celtic’s initial £3.5 million proposal was rejected earlier this week by the Norwegian club. Sandefjord are holding out for closer to £4.3 million for the towering defender, who has impressed observers across Europe with his performances in the Eliteserien.
The Hoops’ persistence highlights manager Martin O’Neill’s desire to address defensive vulnerabilities exposed during the 2025-26 campaign. Celtic conceded too many goals last season despite securing the league title, prompting a clear focus on bolstering the backline ahead of another challenging domestic and European schedule.
**Smajlovic’s Rise and Impressive Profile**
Zinedin Smajlovic, born in Stockholm to Bosnian parents on December 20, 2003, stands at 6ft 3in (1.91m) and possesses the physical attributes that make him a commanding presence in the heart of defence. He began his youth career with AIK before moving through the ranks and eventually settling at Sandefjord.
In the 2025 Eliteserien season, Smajlovic earned a place in the Team of the Season after making 26 appearances, scoring two goals and providing two assists. His ability to contribute offensively from set-pieces while maintaining defensive solidity has marked him out as one of Scandinavia’s brightest defensive prospects.
This season, despite Sandefjord sitting eighth in the table, Smajlovic has continued to shine. He has featured in 10 matches, starting all of them, and delivered consistent performances. According to data from FotMob, the young defender averages 0.10 assists, 1.30 successful dribbles, 6.02 duels won, 1.81 tackles, 1.30 blocked shots, 8.23 recoveries, and 0.40 clean sheets per 90 minutes in the 2026 campaign.
These statistics underline his all-round game. Smajlovic excels in aerial duels, possesses strong long-ball distribution, and shows composure on the ball – traits that would translate well to the physical demands of Scottish football. Celtic scouts have been particularly impressed by his maturity and leadership qualities despite his young age.
At just 22, Smajlovic already holds dual nationality and has represented both Sweden and Bosnia and Herzegovina at youth levels. His international experience adds another layer of pedigree to his profile, making him an attractive proposition for clubs seeking long-term value.
**Competition for the Defender’s Signature**
Securing Smajlovic’s services will not be straightforward. Olympiacos, Hull City, Lyon, and Toulouse are all monitoring the situation closely, with several clubs having registered concrete interest. Olympiacos in particular are understood to have also seen a bid rejected, setting up a potential bidding war.
The Greek side’s interest adds an extra dimension, as they compete in European competitions and can offer Smajlovic regular continental exposure. Hull City, meanwhile, represent a potential route to the English Championship, a league known for its intensity and competitiveness.
Lyon and Toulouse provide options in Ligue 1, where technical quality and tactical sophistication are prized. Celtic will need to act decisively if they are to fend off this multi-club interest and convince the player that Parkhead is the ideal next step in his development.
**Celtic’s Defensive Needs**
Celtic’s defensive record last season left room for improvement. While the attack continued to fire on all cylinders, the back four and goalkeeper faced criticism for occasional lapses in concentration. O’Neill has made it clear that recruitment this summer must prioritise stability and depth at the back.
Signing a young, hungry defender like Smajlovic fits perfectly into this strategy. He would provide competition and rotation options alongside established figures such as Cameron Carter-Vickers and others in the squad. His potential for growth also aligns with Celtic’s model of developing talent that can increase in value over time.
Beyond immediate needs, the move would represent a statement of intent. Celtic are keen to compete at the highest levels both domestically and in Europe, and bolstering the squad with quality additions is essential for that ambition.
**Other Centre-Back Targets on Celtic’s Radar**
Smajlovic is not the only defender linked with a move to Glasgow this summer. Football Insider reported that West Bromwich Albion’s George Campbell is interested in a potential switch to Celtic. The US international centre-back has been monitored by the Hoops and represents another viable option in the transfer market.
However, securing Campbell’s signature could prove equally challenging, with interest reported from Bundesliga and Championship clubs. His experience in English football makes him an appealing target for teams seeking immediate impact.
Other names have also surfaced in connection with Celtic’s rebuild. Reports have mentioned potential interest in returning players or established defenders who could provide leadership and know-how. The club’s transfer team is working through multiple avenues to ensure they strengthen the position adequately before the window closes.
**What Smajlovic Could Bring to Celtic**
If the deal is completed, Smajlovic would arrive with significant upside. His height and aerial prowess would be valuable assets in both boxes, particularly useful in set-piece situations that often decide matches in the Premiership.
Tactically, he is comfortable playing in a high line or more traditional defensive setup, offering flexibility that would suit O’Neill’s preferred systems. His ball-playing ability would also help Celtic build from the back, reducing pressure on the midfield and creating more attacking transitions.
Fans would likely warm quickly to a player who shows commitment and physicality – qualities that have defined successful Celtic defenders in the past. At 22, he has his best years ahead and could develop into a cornerstone of the team for seasons to come.
**The Broader Transfer Context**
This pursuit forms part of a wider summer strategy for Celtic. Having defended their title successfully, the focus now shifts to making the squad more robust for the challenges ahead, including Champions League or Europa League qualification campaigns.
The transfer window remains open, and negotiations for Smajlovic are expected to continue in the coming days and weeks. Whether Celtic can meet Sandefjord’s valuation or find a compromise will be pivotal.
Supporters are eagerly awaiting updates as the club aims to add quality and depth across the pitch. Defensive reinforcements are a priority, but the recruitment team is also exploring opportunities in other areas to ensure a balanced squad.
**Potential Impact on Scottish Football**
A move to Celtic would mark a significant step up for Smajlovic. The Scottish Premiership offers a platform for young players to showcase their talents on a bigger stage, with regular exposure to Old Firm derbies, cup competitions, and European nights.
For Celtic, successfully landing the Bosnian-Swedish talent would demonstrate their ability to identify and secure emerging prospects from smaller leagues – a scouting approach that has yielded dividends in previous windows.
As discussions progress, all eyes remain on Parkhead. The coming days could prove decisive in determining whether Zinedin Smajlovic becomes the latest addition to the green and white stripes.
With multiple clubs circling, Celtic’s hierarchy must balance ambition with pragmatism. The new bid signals serious intent, but the final outcome remains uncertain. Fans will hope that this promising young defender can be persuaded to make the move north and help drive the club forward in the 2026-27 season and beyond.
