The price tag on Celtic transfer target Vakoun Issouf Bayo’s head has been set at £2.7m, as two clubs enter the race to sign him in January, according to The Daily Record.
It was reported earlier this week that the Hoops had submitted a formal £1.75m bid for the player, but that has been swiftly rejected by Dunajska Streda, who are holding out for a bid significantly above that amount.
Streda boss Peter Hyballa has now pleaded with Celtic to either front up the money required, or leave the player be.
As quoted by The Daily Record, the manager of the Slovakian outfit said: “If Celtic are serious and make a serious offer then it is something to consider because they are a wonderful club. I’d need to talk with the player but every coach in the world – and I’m sure Brendan Rodgers will be the same – wants the best for his team. I’m the coach of Dunajska Streda and that is my only interest and we must also look after ourselves. Bayo is a very good striker and I hope he stays with us.”
Hyballa comments are understandable considering he is currently in the middle of a title race in Slovakia, with Bayo scoring 18 goals across league, cup and European action so far this season.
That form has resulted in interest not just from Celtic, but also Serie A side Parma and Austrian outfit Rapid Vienna according to The Record, potentially making it more difficult for the Hoops to get a deal done this month.
However, with Celtic in the need of a new attacker and also having something to prove to supporters, it’s surely unlikely we’ll hang about when pursuing targets this month?
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