Celtic join race for Franco-Guinean midfielder Cheick Souare

Scottish champions Celtic have reportedly entered the race to sign Viktoria Plzen midfielder Cheick Souare as they look to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.

The Hoops are seeking reinforcements following Arne Engels’ £22 million transfer to West Ham, while the future of Reo Hatate at Celtic Park also remains uncertain.

According to reports, Celtic are competing with Serie A clubs Genoa and Monza, as well as Spanish side Getafe, for the 23-year-old midfielder, who has France and Guinean roots.

Getafe have already tested Viktoria Plzen’s resolve with a €2.5 million offer, but the Czech club rejected the proposal.

Plzen are reportedly holding out for a fee between €3.5 million and €4 million for Souare, meaning interested clubs will need to improve their offers to have a chance of completing the deal.

Souare has emerged as one of several midfield targets being considered by Celtic as Brendan Rodgers looks to reshape his options in the middle of the park.

The Scottish champions are also reportedly monitoring Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis and Hajduk Split’s Niko Sigur as they assess potential additions before the transfer window closes.