Tahirović’s late move to Celtic collapses at the deadline

After difficult spells at Roma and especially Ajax, Bosnia and Herzegovina international Benjamin Tahirović has revived his career at Brøndby. That resurgence nearly earned him a move to Celtic late in the winter transfer window — but the deal ultimately collapsed.

According to the Daily Record, Celtic had identified Tahirović as a potential replacement should they cash in on midfielder Arne Engels, who attracted strong interest from Nottingham Forest.

Forest’s bids fell short

Engels joined Celtic in the summer of 2024 from Augsburg for €13 million and quickly became an important part of the squad. Nottingham Forest opened talks with an initial offer of €16.5 million, which Celtic rejected without hesitation.

Forest returned with an improved bid of €20 million, but that too was turned down. On deadline day, a third offer of €23 million arrived, prompting Celtic to respond that they would only consider selling Engels for €29 million.

Forest opted to walk away, ending their pursuit of the Belgian midfielder — and with it, Celtic’s plan to reinvest part of the fee.

Tahirović deal agreed in principle

With a sale of Engels expected, Celtic had reportedly already lined up Tahirović as a cost-effective replacement. The Scottish champions were prepared to pay €3.2 million to Brøndby for the 21-year-old midfielder.

Once Forest withdrew from negotiations for Engels, however, Celtic shelved the move. Without the incoming funds, the Tahirović transfer never materialised before the window closed.

Momentum paused, not stopped

For Tahirović, the failed transfer represents a missed opportunity rather than a setback. His form at Brøndby has put him back on the radar of clubs from stronger leagues, and another window could bring renewed interest.

For now, the Bosnian international remains in Denmark — a reminder of how deadline-day deals can hinge on a single domino falling elsewhere.