NafisaThe summer transfer market is beginning to heat up across Europe, and clubs are increasingly turning their attention towards emerging defensive talent rather than established stars.
Young centre-backs with the potential to develop into top-level performers have become highly prized assets, leading to fierce competition whenever one begins attracting attention.
Both Celtic and Rangers have made strengthening their backlines a priority ahead of the new campaign. While each club has explored several options in recent weeks, neither side has the luxury of operating without competition, as clubs from England and across the continent continue monitoring the same targets.
That has once again become the case with another highly-rated defender who is quickly building a reputation in Sweden.
Celtic and Rangers are both understood to be monitoring Örgryte IS defender Michael Parker during the current transfer window, although Sunderland are also firmly in the race for his signature.
Earlier this month, Sport Witness reported claims from Norway suggesting both Scottish giants were interested in Sandefjord Fotball defender Zinedin Smajlović.
However, the Swedish-based Parker has also emerged as another centre-back under consideration by both Martin O’Neill’s side and Derek McInnes’ squad.
The 21-year-old joined Örgryte IS from West Bromwich Albion in February and has enjoyed an impressive start to life in Sweden.
His performances have earned widespread praise from the Swedish media after establishing himself as a regular in the first team.
Parker has featured in 13 matches, accumulating 985 minutes of action while quickly catching the attention of clubs across Europe.
Celtic, Rangers and Sunderland tracking Parker:
Back in June, transfer journalist Rudy Galetti reported that Sunderland, Newcastle United, Brentford, FC Copenhagen, Eintracht Frankfurt, Sturm Graz, Red Bull Salzburg and Sporting CP were all keeping tabs on the defender.
More recent reports have also linked both Celtic and Rangers with the talented youngster.
Four days ago, Sacha Tavolieri revealed Anderlecht hold Parker in high regard following positive scouting reports.
The Belgian club are believed to face competition from Udinese and RC Strasbourg, with all three sides reportedly prepared to bid around €1.5 million.
Örgryte IS, however, are understood to be seeking closer to €2 million before agreeing to any transfer.
Club responds to growing transfer speculation
Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen has now revisited the growing interest surrounding Parker while providing further insight into the situation.
The publication contacted Örgryte sporting director Pontus Farnerud to discuss reports linking the defender with Celtic, Rangers, Sunderland and several other clubs.
Responding to those claims, Farnerud said:
“Yes, there is interest in Michael. He has a profile and possesses qualities that make him attract interest, but at the moment all focus for both Michael and Öis is the match against Kalmar FF [to be played on Sunday].”
When pressed about whether any formal bids had arrived, he replied:
“No comment.”
According to Fotbollskanalen, Farnerud’s response effectively confirms that clubs have already made approaches regarding Parker, although he declined to reveal any further details.
The defender remains under contract until December 2028, with the Swedish club also holding the option to extend that agreement by an additional year.
Transfermarkt currently values Parker at approximately €2 million, matching the asking price Örgryte are reportedly demanding as interest from across Europe continues to intensify.
Nafisa
