Celtic handed Zinedin Smajlovic transfer warning after poor display
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Credit: Imago Mon 18 May 2026 19:45, UK Celtic are looking to improve their squad this summer transfer window, and have been linked to Zinedin Smajlovic.The backline is perhaps one of the key areas the club needs to improve upon after struggling to keep clean sheets.The 22-year-old centre-back has impressed at Norwegian side Sandefjord for many months and quickly became a key player.However, he had one of his poorest performances on Saturday, as he was sent off in a 3-1 defeat against Lillestrom.With Celtic aiming to rapidly improve their starting XI, this is now a warning that Smajlovic may not be ready for consistent Scottish Premiership football. 🔄 Celtic Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Parkhead boardroom. VISIT THE CELTIC TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Zinedin Smajlovic shows inexperience vs LillestromWhile there is no doubt that Smajlovic is a brilliant upcoming talent, there are clearly still issues that need to be ironed out.Late on, with Sandefjord 2-1 down, the defender made a reckless challenge as the hosts looked to break.Zinedin Smajlovic’ stats vs LillestromMinutes 87Red cards1Tackles2Clearances 8Recoveries 5Ground duels won 33%Smajlovic had an ok game until the red card.
Credit: FotmobSmajlovic knocked down the attacker, getting none of the ball, whilst already being on a booking.As a result, he was given his marching orders, with the decision essentially ending any hopes of Sandefjord getting a result.Therefore, Celtic should take this as a warning. While Smajlovic could still be an excellent signing, he may not be capable of being an instant first-teamer and could particularly struggle in Europe.Hence, if the Hoops do go through with the signing, he may be best used as a backup as he continues with his development.Which other defenders are Celtic linked to?Football Insider has exclusively revealed that George Campbell is interested in moving to Celtic this summer transfer window.The centre-back currently plays for West Bromwich Albion in the Championship, and is one of a number of defenders the Hoops are considering.The USA international is also attracting interest from clubs in the Bundesliga and the English Championship, and Celtic are under no illusions that it could be a difficult deal for them to pull off.Campbell proved to be crucial at the Baggies as they narrowly avoided a shock relegation to League One this season.However, it remains to be seen who Celtic will opt to bring in during the summer transfer window as they aim to firmly establish themselves as Scotland’s best club.