GO FOR JOZO

Lawwell in Croatia for talks over Simunovic

CELTIC have opened talks with Dinamo Zagreb over a f ee f or centre-back Jozo Simunovic.

Sportsmail revealed on Saturday that Simunovic is leading a list of potential replacements for Virgil van Dijk, who is a £10million target for Southampton. And it is understood Parkhead chief executive Peter Lawwell has visited Zagreb for negotiations.

Reports in Croatia claim a proposal — worth in excess of £3.5m — was discussed during the trip, but Dinamo president Zdravko Mamic is seeking a minimum of £4m up front.

The Croatia Under-20 international (below) was tracked by Bayern Munich and Lyon last season and is regarded as one of his country’s rising stars. It remains to be seen whether Dinamo will drop their asking price to make a deal, but the champions are clearly having to consider the prospect of life after van Dijk. The Dutchman will not be sold until the Champions League play- off with Malmo is completed, but Southampton are hopeful of concluding a deal before the window closes. Everton are also interested.

Celtic are also monitoring defender Jason Denayer’s situation at Manchester City, with the possibility he could be available for loan if the English giants land Nicolas Otamendi from Valencia.

The Parkhead outfit would face competition in any attempt to bring Denayer back to Glasgow following his successful spell last season, but could offer the carrot of Champions League experience should Malmo be defeated.

In terms of potential exits from Celtic, Spanish outfit Valladolid are thought to be considering a move for Stefan Scepovic, who has made only one appearance as a substitute this season.