Fabrizio Romano confirms reported Celtic target to join FC Basel | OneFootball

Promising Serbian midfielder Andrej Bačanin is set to join Swiss side FC Basel, with a deal reportedly agreed at €2.3 million plus €700,000 in potential add-ons from FK Čukarički…

Andrej Bačanin

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news, signalling the end of Celtic’s reported interest in the 18-year-old.

‘FC Basel have agreed deal to sign Andrej Bačanin on €2.3m fee plus €700k add-ons from Cukaricki.’

Last week, Bačanin had been linked with a move to Celtic, as reported in The Celtic Star,where we took a closer look at the defensive midfielder’s attributes and potential fit in Brendan Rodgers’ squad.

Known for his composure on the ball, positional discipline, and maturity. Bačanin has been making waves in the Serbian SuperLiga and was viewed as a long-term investment by clubs across Europe.

Celtic’s interest in Bačanin appeared to be exploratory, with the club possibly monitoring his development ahead of a future bid, rather than anything concrete. However, FC Basel moved decisively, agreeing a structured deal with Čukarički that includes performance-based bonuses.

The move to Switzerland could be a smart step for Bačanin’s career. Basel have a strong record of developing young talent and providing a platform for players to shine before moving to bigger European leagues. For Celtic, it perhaps marks a missed opportunity to snap up one of Serbia’s young talents before his value potentially increases.

While it remains unclear how far along Celtic were in their pursuit, the interest itself indicates that the club remains active in scouting emerging talents from Eastern Europe.

Stefan Bajcetic of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Everton FC at Anfield on February 13, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Celtic have also been linked with a player who plays the same position – in Liverpool’s Stefan Bajcetic on a loan-to-buy deal, and that could be a key reason they didn’t pursue Andrej Bačanin after all.

Celtic may see Bajcetic, who offers top‑level pedigree, alongside versatility as a defensive midfielder or centre‑back, and previous senior spells at RB Salzburg and Las Palmas, as a stronger strategic fit.

Jahmai Simpson-Pusey of Manchester City during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Manchester City and Salford City at Etihad Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Manchester. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

The loan market is one Celtic are already utilising it seems, with Manchester City defender Jahmai Simpson-Pusey expected to arrive on a year long loan, with Fabrizio Romano also confirming that move earlier today.

That incoming move will facilitate Stephen Welsh heading back out of Celtic, also likely on a loan deal, to Plymouth Argyle

Bačanin will now look to continue his development in the Swiss Super League, meanwhile Celtic –hopefully, it’s always hopefully – will now move on to other targets.

Niall J

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