NafisaZinedin Smajlović is edging closer to a switch to Greece rather than a potential move to Scotland, with the defender’s next destination now appearing to be all but decided.
Transfer rumours in European football rarely stay still for long, and the situation surrounding the highly-rated Sandefjord centre-back has been no different.
With clubs across the continent constantly scouting emerging defensive talents, it is little surprise that the Sweden U21 international found himself at the centre of growing speculation in recent days.
Sources in Greece and Scandinavia have been tracking his situation closely, with multiple reports suggesting interest was building from a number of directions as the summer window begins to heat up. However, as is often the case in these early stages of transfer chatter, not every link carries the same level of substance behind it.
Olympiacos are now said to be “very close” to striking an agreement for the promising defender, effectively moving ahead of any remaining competition and placing themselves in pole position to complete the deal. [SportFM]
The latest update arrives shortly after claims surfaced suggesting Celtic had seen a €4 million offer turned down for the 22-year-old. That report quickly circulated, sparking debate over whether the Scottish champions were actively pushing to secure his signature or simply being positioned as one of several interested parties.
However, CeltsAreHere were quick to provide clarity on the situation.
As outlined earlier today, Celtic had not actually tabled any formal bid for Smajlović at all.
In fact, CeltsAreHere understands that while there were two proposals made for the defender, neither originated from Scotland.
That detail significantly reshapes the narrative, especially with Olympiacos now reportedly closing in on a breakthrough agreement.
It strongly indicates that the Greek giants have been among the most proactive clubs in the background, while Celtic’s involvement appears to have been overstated in earlier speculation.
It also highlights a familiar theme of modern transfer windows, where clubs of Celtic’s stature are frequently used as reference points in wider European rumours due to their profile and financial reach, even when concrete interest may not exist.
In this case, however, the evidence suggests the links were more speculative than substantial from the outset.
Whether Celtic ever held genuine admiration for Smajlović remains unclear, but what is certain is that the Hoops are expected to strengthen at centre-back this summer and have been casting an eye across multiple markets for defensive reinforcements.
But with Olympiacos now firmly in control of negotiations, that particular track may already be reaching its conclusion.
The broader squad picture remains unchanged, with Martin O’Neill still identifying key areas that require depth and quality ahead of the new campaign, and central defence continuing to sit high on the list of priorities.
Smajlović may have briefly been one of several names under consideration in that search.
But unless something unexpected develops late on, his next step looks set to take him to Greece rather than Glasgow.
Nafisa
