Celtic-linked Franko Kovacevic tipped for elite level future

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The Celtic Star

·16. Januar 2026

Celtic-linked Franko Kovacevic tipped for elite level future

Celtic-linked Franko Kovacevic has been tipped for a future in Europe’s elite leagues by his former coach and Bosnia legend Senijad Ibricic…

Celje, Slovenia, December 18th 2025, Franko Kovacevic of Celje L in action against Mark Coyle of Shelbourne R during the UEFA Conference League, League phase Matchday 6, between Celje Slovenia and Shelbourne Ireland at Stadion Celje, Celje, Slovenia. Photo by Igor Kupljenik/Sports Press IMAGO

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill is understood to be closing in on new additions as the Scottish champions prepare for a title race with Hearts and the latest Ibrox club.

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Among the names attracting strong interest is Croatian marksman Kovacevic, whose remarkable return of 23 goals in 24 appearances for Slovenian side NK Celje across league and European competition has caught attention.

The ex-Hajduk Split forward previously featured in spells across Germany, the United States and Cyprus before settling in Slovenia with NK Domžale three years ago.

Celje, Slovenia, December 18th 2025, Franko Kovacevic of Celje L in action during the UEFA Conference League, League phase Matchday 6, between Celje Slovenia and Shelbourne Ireland at Stadion Celje, Celje, Slovenia. Photo by Igor Kupljenik/Sports Press IMAGO

He was recruited during Ibricic’s time in charge, and later added further experience in Germany and South Korea before joining his current club, NK Celje.

Kovacevic’s blistering scoring run also earned him a surprise inclusion in Croatia’s preliminary squad in October, although he ultimately missed out on a final call-up.

Ibricic believes the striker has the qualities to progress to the highest level and said via Daily Record: “I’m certain he will eventually go to one of the top five leagues in Europe.”

“In fact, when he reaches his prime, he will get to choose which club he wants to go to. He reminds me of Viktor Gyokeres. Look, I am not saying he will go directly from Celje to Arsenal now, but I expect him to go to a club that’s just below the top five leagues and then move on.”

Franko Kovacevic 27.09.2025 – Celje – Maribor 10th round of the Slovenian First Football League Telemach. Photo Nik Erik Neubauer IMAGO

“He is a very fast player and that’s probably because in the early stages of his career, he played as a winger. His best position is as a striker. He’s very good at one-on-ones and knows the game. He also has an abnormal physique.”

Kovacevic previously opened up earlier in the campaign about the winding road his career has taken and explained why he feels his best years are still ahead of him.

Reflecting on his experiences across several countries and leagues, the striker insisted the setbacks and moves have shaped him for a late surge at the top level.

The Celtic-linked striker said: “My role model is Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He was clinical in front of goal and, like me, had a lot of clubs too. It was hard for me to accept the failures I have had at some of my clubs. But I am only 26, so there is plenty of time.”

Franko Kovacevic of NK Celje runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Paddy Barrett of Shelbourne during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between NK Celje and Shelbourne FC at Stadion Celje on December 18, 2025 in Celje, Slovenia. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)

“There are so many talented players in football who get lost and never get to shine. Sometimes, a player gets a little lost and loses faith. The biggest thing is self-confidence. Perhaps a player is good at one club, but not at another. It’s a question of self-confidence.”

“The Croatian national team is something special to me. All the players are heroes in my eyes. The most important thing I have to do is be humble and believe. With faith and positivity, anything is possible one day.”

“Zlatko Dalic is one of the three best managers in the world. It would be a huge honour if I could play for Croatia one day soon.”

Conor Spence

Morning Gossip: Todays rumours are offering West Ham striker Callum Wilson a pay as you play deal. Strange link to FC Basel LW winger Philip Otele. Franko Kovacevic asking price set at €5m. Still links to Bowie. Also talk we are looking for a RCB & CM. Clock ticking @CelticFC HH
– Freitag, 16. Januar 2026

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