Franko Kovačević (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Interest in Celje striker Franko Kovačević is growing, with Ferencváros joining Újpest in the race as the Slovenian club seek at least €3 million.
Spremljajte Nogomanio kot prednostni vir na Googlu
Dodajte Nogomanio med priljubjene vire v Google News in
prejemajte najpomembnejše nogometne novice med prvimi.
Celje’s standout striker Franko Kovačević has become one of the most sought-after forwards in the region, with interest now intensifying from Hungary. After Újpest were revealed as serious suitors, their biggest domestic rivals Ferencváros have also entered the race.
Celje are understood to be holding out for a fee of at least €3 million for the Slovenian league’s leading scorer. Club sources initially hoped for a higher figure, but market dynamics have helped define a more realistic valuation. For Újpest, a deal at that level would represent a record transfer, underlining both their ambition and the scale of the investment required.
Ferencváros step in with greater financial power
While Újpest’s interest remains firm, the arrival of Ferencváros changes the landscape. Hungary’s most successful club are actively searching for a new centre-forward and, crucially, are better placed financially to meet Celje’s demands.
Ferencváros are coached by former Ireland captain Robbie Keane, whose project in Budapest is geared towards sustained domestic dominance and a renewed push towards the UEFA Champions League group stage. Within that context, Kovačević is seen as a profile that could immediately strengthen their attacking options.
Squad changes create space up front
Ferencváros are preparing for changes in attack. The club are expected to part ways with experienced Serbian striker Aleksandar Pešić, while they have already sanctioned the sale of Barnabás Varga to AEK Athens in a deal reported to be worth €4.5 million. That move, requested by head coach Marko Nikolić, has both freed space in the squad and strengthened Ferencváros’ transfer budget.
With the club firmly in the title race and European ambitions intact, reinforcements are considered a priority rather than a luxury.
Újpest face uphill battle — Celje sense opportunity
For Újpest, Ferencváros’ involvement is problematic. Their great rivals possess greater resources and, from a player’s perspective, offer a more immediate pathway to trophies and European football. That reality could weigh heavily on Kovačević’s decision should both clubs formalise their interest.
For Celje, however, the situation is positive. Increased competition between buyers strengthens their negotiating position and raises the possibility of extracting a higher overall package.
As the summer window approaches, Kovačević’s future is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched transfer stories in the region.