Rangers have suffered a late setback in the transfer market after Celtic moved swiftly to hijack a deal that had been progressing towards completion, sources have told Sky Sports.
The Ibrox club had been in advanced negotiations with the Italian side and were increasingly confident of securing the player’s signature, with discussions over personal terms understood to be well advanced. A breakthrough was expected before Celtic entered the picture late in the process.
Celtic’s intervention came at a crucial stage, with the Parkhead club presenting an improved proposal that ultimately proved decisive. The player is now expected to complete the formalities ahead of a move to Glasgow’s east end, pending final paperwork.
Rangers are understood to be disappointed by the outcome, having believed they were close to concluding the deal. The late twist has prompted frustration among supporters, who had anticipated an announcement in the coming days.
From Celtic’s perspective, the move highlights their intent to strengthen the squad ahead of the new campaign, while also preventing a potential reinforcement for their Old Firm rivals. The club has remained active in the market and continues to assess further targets.
Neither Rangers nor Celtic have made an official comment, but the Italian club involved is believed to have accepted Celtic’s revised offer following rapid talks in the early hours of Monday, January 5, 2026..
The episode underlines the fine margins involved in modern transfer negotiations, particularly in the context of the Old Firm rivalry, where competition extends beyond the pitch and into the market.