Celtic have had a second bid of £1.8m for Vakoun Issouf Bayo rejected according to Sky Sports (live transfer blog, 13.11) but Dunajska Strada are open to negotiations, according to the Slovakian club’s sporting director.
The Ivorian international has scored 18 goals in 23 matches in all competitions so far this season, and has been heavily linked with a move for the 21-year-old.
The Daily Record suggest that his current club value him at around to £2.7 million, with Celtic yet to meet that valuation.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Jan Van Daele, sporting director of the Slovakian title challengers, confirmed that a bid had been rejected, but suggested that the club were willing to listen to improved offers.
He said: “We confirm we have received a bid from Celtic but refused the bid as it did not match our expectations.
“We are in direct contact with Celtic club officials and we are open to negotiate with Celtic.”
Sky Sports claims the player would like a move to Glasgow.
OPINION
The signs are really promising for Celtic. The price tag slapped on Bayo may be a little higher than they were initially wanting to play, but even at £2.7 million he could prove to be a steal, and it’s a huge plus knowing that Dunajska Strada are happy to listen to offers. It’s no secret that Celtic needs goals, and with his stellar strike rate, Bayo would be a top signing for the Hoops. Just as importantly, at 21 he has plenty of time to develop and grow as a player, and with the right coaching and patience, who’s to say how good he could become. If Celtic don’t snap him up, somebody else will, and the Bhoys could be left kicking themselves if their unwillingness to stump up the asking price deprives them of a player who has the potential to score goals wherever he goes. Brendan Rodgers mustn’t hesitate to make his move.