United keeping tabs on Celtic ace Simunovic

NEWCASTLE United are ‘admirers’ of Celtic defender Jozo Simunovic, according to reports.

The 22-year-old Croatian has played a key role in the Hoops’ bid for a domestic treble.

Celtic have already claimed two trophies in their as-of-yet unbeaten campaign and they can add the Scottish FA Cup to their haul too.

United are believed to be among a host of European clubs who are considering a summer move for the Croatian under-21 international.

A price tag of £9million is also suggested and, though it is unclear at this stage whether Rafa Benitez does have a specific interest in Simunovic, the Magpies’ boss wants to strengthen at centreback this summer.

Spanish sides Sevilla and Espanyol, Bundesliga new-boys RB Leipzig and Serie A outfit Torino, as well West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace, have all been credited with interest in the player.

Simunovic has played 29 times for Celtic this season, including twice in the Champions League, and is viewed as a defender with a big future ahead of him.

The Hoops paid £3million for Simunovic when they signed the defender from Dinamo Zagreb in August 2015.

What is more, the report claims Celtic are yet to receive an offer for Simunovic and they are unlikely to even consider selling the centre-back before their Champions League qualifiers in July. Celtic defender Jozo Simunovic