Filip Benkovic released by Leicester - what chance of a Celtic return?

Former Celtic defender Filip Benkovic has left Leicester City after his contract was terminated by mutual consent.

The Croatian centre-back spent the 2018-19 season on loan at Celtic Park where he played under both Brendan Rodgers and Neil Lennon, who replaced the Irishman in February before going on to lift the Scottish Premiership title and complete a treble-winning season.

Benkovic remains a popular figure among Celtic fans after making 30 appearances for the club, but he departs the Foxes having made only two senior appearances since joining from Dinamo Zagreb in August 2018 on a five-year deal.

The 24-year-old has also had loan spells at Bristol City, Cardiff and Belgian side OH Leuven – but a return to Celtic is not on the cards.

Celtic's Filip Benkovic celebrates after scoring against Dundee in December 2018.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Benkovic is due to have a medical with Udinese ahead of a move to Serie A.

The Italians had a transfer bid for Celtic defender Stephen Welsh rejected earlier this week.

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