Celtic's chances of signing Bosnian World Cup star Ivan Basic are fading after Eintracht Frankfurt entered the race for the midfielder. The FC Astana ace, valued at £2 million, has been heavily linked with a move to Parkhead after impressing Hoops scouts. However, reports in Kazakhstan claim the Bundesliga side have made a formal enquiry and are considering a bid.
Growing Interest in Basic
The 24-year-old made history as the first player from the Kazakhstan Premier League to feature at a World Cup, attracting attention from several clubs. Spanish side Elche are also monitoring the midfielder. Astana boss Grigory Babayan acknowledged last week that the club would not block a move, saying: "We have to be realistic and accept that Ivan's participation at the World Cup is an important moment in his career and could open the way for him to move to a stronger European league."
Smajlovic Claims Dismissed
Meanwhile, reports that Celtic had launched a £3.5 million bid for Swedish defender Zinedin Smajlovic have been dismissed. Record Sport understands the 22-year-old from Sandefjord is close to joining Olympiacos instead.
