Celtic learn asking price for Dinko Horkas as opening bid rejected

Celtic could finally be about to address one of the biggest gaps in Martin O’Neill’s squad, with negotiations progressing for Las Palmas goalkeeper Dinko Horkas.

The Scottish champions have been relatively quiet in the transfer market this summer, with their only two additions being attacking players.

Kasper Høgh has arrived in a marquee deal from Bodo/Glimt, whereas Camilo Duran has also put pen to paper at Parkhead as they rebuild their forward line following the departure of Daizen Maeda.

However, one position that remains in urgent need of strengthening is in goal.

Following Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement, Celtic’s senior goalkeeping options have been reduced to Viljami Sinisalo and Ross Doohan, making the addition of an experienced first-choice goalkeeper one of the club’s biggest requirements before the deadline. That has seen Horkas emerge as a leading target in recent weeks.

The Croatian goalkeeper has been heavily linked with a move to Glasgow, and the latest update suggests the Hoops are heading in the right direction to seal a deal.

Celtic bid on the table for Horkas with talks progressing

According to reports relayed by Sport Witness, Celtic have offered €4m (£3.4m) for the 27-year-old’s signature.

However, Las Palmas are demanding a higher fee, potentially up to €10m (£8.5m). Despite this, it is added that negotiations between the clubs are progressing positively, and the Hoops are considered to be in an “advantageous position” to complete the deal with an improved proposal.

It’s easy to understand why the Scottish champions are so keen on Horkas, who wants to play at the highest level.

Horkas enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Las Palmas in La Liga 2. Across all competitions, he made 43 appearances – the most he has made in a single season during his career. He kept 14 clean sheets and conceded 41 goals – less than a goal a game.

His shot-stopping ability, commanding presence in the penalty area and calm distribution could make him an ideal fit at Celtic Park, while his experience in numeorus countries could also ease the transition into Scottish football. However, Horkas has never played in either the Champions League or Europa League, but this is something which could make a move to Glasgow even more appealing.

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With talks continuing and Celtic seemingly in the strongest position in the race, the Hoops may now be edging closer to filling one of the most important gaps in their squad before the window slams shut.