Celtic miss out on 'shortlisted' defensive transfer target

Celtic target Filip Benkovic will not be returning to Parkhead for a second spell after signing for Belgian side OH Leuven.

Celtic's Filip Benkovic. (Picture: SNS Group Craig Foy)

The Croatian was allowed to leave Leicester City on loan and had his former club on high alert as they sought defensive cover with Christopher Jullien out of action for three months.

Assistant manager John Kennedy admitted a return move was being considered after the defender’s previous spell at Parkhead during season 2018-19.

Speaking over the weekend he said: "Filip is one who we are very well aware of and have spoken about. We know what he is capable of, and he's a guy who has been here and knows what it's about.

"So he is certainly on a shortlist of options to strengthen the centre-back position."

However Celtic will now need to turn to the alternatives on their list as Benkovic has moved to Belgian Pro League side OH Leuven for the remainder of the campaign.

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