Celtic set to make a move for long-awaited Arne Engels replacement

Celtic could reignite their interest in Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis if the Italian club lower their £13m asking price, with the Lithuanian still firmly on the club’s radar.

The Hoops pushed hard to sign Gineitis during the summer but were unable to reach an agreement with Torino before the transfer window closed. Celtic were prepared to continue negotiations right up until deadline day, but Torino’s valuation proved too high for the Scottish champions.

Despite the failed move, Gineitis has remained an important part of Torino’s plans. The 22-year-old has started six matches this season and already has an assist to his name, coming during the 2-1 home defeat to AC Milan.

According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Celtic have not abandoned their interest and could return for Gineitis in January or next summer. However, Torino’s willingness to reduce their valuation could ultimately determine whether a deal becomes realistic.

Celtic’s failure to qualify for the Champions League has also affected their spending power, something that could make negotiations even more difficult.

The situation has become particularly interesting after Martin O’Neill admitted that Celtic never managed to find a suitable replacement for Arne Engels following his move to West Ham.

O’Neill has made it clear that replacing the midfielder remains something Celtic will need to revisit, especially given the energy and running power Engels brought to the team.

And that could put Gineitis right back into the spotlight.

The Lithuanian offers the kind of versatility Celtic could desperately use. He has experience playing in deeper midfield roles but can also operate further forward when required.

Gineitis himself has previously explained that adapting to different positions is an important part of modern football, while revealing that defensive midfield is his preferred role.

With Celtic now looking to maintain their position at the top of the Scottish Premiership following two damaging defeats to Rangers, January could become a crucial opportunity to strengthen.

If Torino soften their demands, Celtic could once again make their move for Gineitis — and this time, O’Neill may finally get the Arne Engels replacement he wanted.