Celtic handed major boost in £3.5m transfer chase after emotional farewell

Celtic handed major Niko Sigur boost as Hajduk boss confirms emotional farewell

Celtic have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Niko Sigur, with Hajduk Split manager Gonzalo Garcia confirming that the Canadian international has likely made his final appearance for the Croatian side.

The 22-year-old has been on Celtic’s radar for an extended period, with the Scottish champions understood to have been monitoring the versatile midfielder since before the 2026 World Cup.

However, Brendan Rodgers’ side face competition for his signature, with interest from both Belgium and France increasing.

Genk have reportedly taken a major step by submitting a £3.5 million offer for Sigur, while Toulouse are also believed to have made a proposal worth around £2.5m. Despite that competition, the midfielder’s situation now appears to be approaching a conclusion.

Sigur featured for Hajduk in their dramatic Europa Conference League play-off victory over Rakow Czestochowa, playing an important role as the Croatian club secured a late extra-time success.

Following the match, the midfielder was given an emotional farewell by his manager and teammates, with Garcia subsequently admitting that Sigur and Rokas Pukstas are both expected to leave the club imminently.

Hajduk boss confirms Sigur is likely to leave

Garcia revealed that emotions were running high inside the Hajduk dressing room after the victory, praising Sigur and Pukstas for their commitment and suggesting both players could be on their way out.

Speaking after the game, he said:

“We cried together in the dressing room with Niko Sigur. I think this is the best way for someone to leave. He was very emotional, along with Rokas Pukstas, because they are both probably leaving.”

The comments provide the clearest indication yet that Sigur’s time at Hajduk could be coming to an end.

Pukstas is reportedly expected to complete a transfer to Middlesbrough, while Sigur’s next destination remains the subject of considerable speculation.

For Celtic, Garcia’s comments will be particularly encouraging given their long-standing interest in the midfielder.

Sigur shows leadership qualities in final Hajduk appearance

The Canadian also demonstrated his leadership qualities during what could prove to be his farewell appearance.

Before extra-time began, Sigur delivered an inspirational speech to his teammates as Hajduk prepared for the decisive period of the match.

Garcia was impressed by the midfielder’s attitude and highlighted the moment when discussing his contribution.

“Niko gave an inspirational talk to his teammates before the start of extra time too. I’m proud of how he and Rokas fought for the team.”

That display of character could further strengthen Celtic’s belief that Sigur would be a valuable addition to their squad.

Celtic reportedly ahead in Sigur race

Celtic remain up against Genk and Toulouse, but there are growing suggestions that the Parkhead club could ultimately win the race.

Sigur is understood to be attracted by the possibility of moving to Glasgow, while his international relationship with Celtic defender Alistair Johnston could also help the Scottish champions’ cause.

There has also been a major claim from Croatian football pundit and former Poland international Łukasz Gikiewicz, who suggested that an agreement has already been reached between Sigur and Celtic.

Gikiewicz wrote on X:

“Two outgoing transfers after Thursday’s match in Częstochowa agreed. Rokas Pukštas to Middlesbrough. Niko Sigur to Celtic.”

That claim has yet to be officially confirmed by Celtic or Hajduk, so it should be treated as a report rather than a completed transfer.

Nevertheless, the combination of Sigur’s emotional farewell, Garcia’s comments and the growing transfer speculation has made his future one of the stories to watch closely.

What Sigur could offer Celtic

Sigur’s versatility is one of the qualities that makes him an attractive target.

The Canadian can operate in several midfield roles and has developed considerable experience despite being just 22. His ability to contribute both defensively and in possession could provide Celtic with another option in the middle of the pitch.

His age also fits the profile of a player who could potentially develop further at Parkhead and increase in value over the coming seasons.

Celtic’s long-standing interest suggests that their recruitment team have been monitoring his progress closely rather than reacting solely to his recent performances.

Transfer situation

With Hajduk seemingly prepared to part ways with Sigur, the focus now shifts towards where the midfielder will continue his career.

Genk have reportedly put £3.5m on the table, while Toulouse have made an offer in the region of £2.5m.

Celtic therefore appear to face a genuine battle for his signature, although the latest reports indicate that the player himself could favour a move to Parkhead.

If Gikiewicz’s claim proves accurate, Celtic may already have done enough to secure the Canadian’s services.

For now, though, the deal remains to be officially confirmed.

The biggest positive for Celtic is that Sigur’s departure from Hajduk now appears imminent, while reports continue to point towards Parkhead as his preferred destination.