NafisaCeltic have handed Rangers a potentially frustrating transfer setback after a major update involving Dermot Desmond emerged from Parkhead ahead of the summer transfer window.
With both Glasgow rivals expected to strengthen heavily in the coming weeks, several transfer battles are already beginning to take shape behind the scenes.
Rangers have been credited with an interest in ETO FC midfielder Milan Vitalis as Danny Rohl looks to reshape his squad and finally mount a serious challenge to Celtic’s dominance of Scottish football next season.
However, the latest developments suggest Celtic are now moving aggressively to position themselves ahead of their rivals.
Despite securing another Scottish Premiership title following their dramatic final-day victory over Hearts, there remains an expectation that significant changes will take place at Parkhead this summer.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton recently suggested that several key players could depart, with the likes of Daizen Maeda, Arne Engels, Alistair Johnston and Reo Hatate all attracting growing attention from clubs elsewhere.
That has left Celtic searching for potential reinforcements, particularly in midfield.
According to Football Insider, Celtic have been keeping a close watch on Milan Vitalis and are now preparing a move for the highly-rated Hungarian midfielder.
The report claims that Dermot Desmond and the Celtic hierarchy believe Vitalis could make an immediate impact in Scottish football and have identified him as an ideal addition to strengthen the squad ahead of next season.
The development could come as disappointing news for Rangers supporters, given the Light Blues were previously reported to be monitoring the same player.
Aberdeen are also believed to be interested, but Celtic’s growing involvement has significantly intensified the race for his signature.
Vitalis has earned widespread praise for his performances in Hungary.
Hungary national team manager Marco Rossi previously described the midfielder as a player who “reads the game well” and praised his ability to operate across multiple positions in midfield.
The 24-year-old played a crucial role in ETO FC’s title-winning campaign, registering nine goals and four assists in 31 appearances while helping his side dethrone Ferencvaros.
Perhaps most appealing of all is the reported transfer fee.
Recent reports have suggested Vitalis could be available for around £1.1million, making him an attractive option for any club looking to strengthen without spending heavily.
With Celtic now stepping up their pursuit, Rangers may find themselves facing another transfer battle against their biggest rivals before the window has even fully opened.
Whether Danny Rohl’s side respond with a move of their own remains to be seen, but Celtic’s latest activity suggests they have no intention of standing still after another title-winning campaign.
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