Celtic in Talks to Sign Franko Kovacevic from NK Celje

Celtic Football Club has initiated talks to sign Slovenian striker Franko Kovacevic from NK Celje during the January transfer window, as the Scottish champions seek to address their attacking shortcomings and mount a renewed challenge for the Premiership title.

The club currently trails league leaders Hearts by six points after a challenging first half of the season, marked by multiple managerial changes and inconsistent performances up front. With the transfer deadline set for February 2, manager Martin O'Neill has prioritized bolstering the striker position to improve squad balance and goal-scoring output. Celtic's current options have struggled for reliability, particularly Ireland international Johnny Kenny, who has managed only four goals from an expected goals tally of 6.76 in 14 league appearances, underscoring the need for a more clinical forward.

Kovacevic, a 26-year-old Croatian, has emerged as a prime target due to his prolific form. He has scored 25 goals in 28 appearances across all competitions this season, including 14 in European qualifiers and group-stage matches for NK Celje in the Europa League and Conference League. The versatile forward, who can operate as a...