Celtic FC's ongoing pursuit of Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis has hit a snag, as the Italian club has deemed their latest bid too low. The 22-year-old Lithuanian international has been a target for Celtic, particularly under the watchful eye of manager Martin O'Neill, who sees Gineitis as a vital addition to bolster the midfield.
Reports indicate that Celtic's offer did not meet Torino's asking price, which is believed to be around £9 million. This rejection is not surprising, given Celtic's history of making lower-than-expected offers in the transfer market. The Serie A side has made it clear that they are not willing to entertain bids that fall short of their valuation.
Gineitis has been a standout performer for Torino, showcasing his physicality and energetic playing style, which aligns with the qualities O'Neill is looking for in a replacement for the outgoing Arne Engels. O'Neill's admiration for Gineitis is well-known, and he has urged the Celtic hierarchy to pursue a deal. However, the latest developments suggest that Torino is not in a hurry to part ways with the midfielder.
According to sources, Torino's strategy remains focused on strengthening their squad, regardless of Gineitis's potential departure. The club is reportedly looking to secure a midfielder to replace the outgoing Sasa Ilić, further complicating Celtic's attempts to acquire Gineitis. The Italian club's stance was reiterated by Toro Goal, which stated that without a significant increase in their offer, Gineitis will remain with Torino.
While O'Neill may be disappointed by this setback in securing one of his primary transfer targets, there is some positive news for Celtic fans. The club is reportedly closing in on two other midfield prospects: 19-year-old Dutch youth international Joel van den Berg from PSV and Danish midfielder Oliver Sorensen, who is on the verge of a loan move from Parma. These potential signings could help mitigate the disappointment surrounding the failed bid for Gineitis.
As the transfer window continues, Celtic will need to reassess their strategy and possibly return with an improved offer for Gineitis or shift their focus entirely to other targets. The club's ambitions for the upcoming season hinge on their ability to strengthen the squad, and securing quality midfielders will be crucial for their success in both domestic and European competitions.
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