The transfer chase for Celtic target Vinicius Souza is hotting up after Schalke joined the race to land the Brazilian.
Real Betis are also in the hunt with the Lommel player a man in demand across Europe. The Hoops have held talks with the midfielder’s representatives. A loan deal with an option to buy is on the table.
But the Daily Mail now reports that the German and Spanish outfits are in contention to land the 23-year-old as well. Schalke are looking to strengthen in the middle of the pitch despite already adding Tom Krauss to their squad ahead of their return to the Bundesliga. Die Konigsblauen looked set to land Christopher Jullien from Celtic last week, but the move collapsed due to issues with the Frenchman’s medical.
And now they could be set to rival Ange Postecoglou’ s team in pursuit of Souza. Fenerbahce have also been credited with an interest but also want William Carvalho from Betis, who have identified SOuza as a replacement.
However, the City Football Group own 60 per cent of Souza. Celtic hired Postecoglou from CFG club Yokohama F Marinos and appointed Mark Lawwelll - son of former chief executive Peter - from the organisation as head of recruitment.
That could give Celtic the edge. It was the City Football Group that placed Souza in Belgium and he is currently training in Manchester. Lawwell’s relationship may prove to be a key factor in Souza deciding his next move.
The champions have already been busy in the transfer window. Cameron carter-Vickers and Jota have joined on permanent deals while Benjamin Siegrist, Alexandro Bernabei and Daize Maeda have all joined up or made loan deals permanent.
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