Celtic not prepared to meet Hibs asking price for Chaiwa - gossip

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By BBC — BBC News

Celtic not prepared to meet Hibs asking price for Chaiwa - gossip
LUSAKA – Zambian football circles are abuzz with speculation as Scottish Premiership champions Celtic continue to monitor Hibernian midfielder Miguel Chaiwa, though a significant financial hurdle currently stands in the way of any potential transfer. Reports from Scotland indicate that while Celtic remains keen on acquiring the services of the 22-year-old Chipolopolo international, they are reluctant to meet Hibernian's current asking price, which is believed to be considerably higher than the £5 million they are reportedly willing to offer. Chaiwa, who has steadily built a reputation as a tenacious and versatile midfielder since his move to Hibernian, has caught the eye of several European clubs, including Celtic. His performances in the Scottish Premiership have highlighted his potential, making him a valuable asset for Hibs. For Zambian football, a move to a club of Celtic's stature would not only be a significant career milestone for Chaiwa but also a source of immense pride and inspiration for young players back home, showcasing the pathway to top-tier European football. The financial disparity between Celtic's proposed bid and Hibernian's valuation is the primary sticking point. Hibs, having invested in Chaiwa's development, are understandably looking to maximise their return on a player they view as a key component of their squad and a future star. Negotiations in the transfer market are often complex, involving various factors including player ambition, club finances, and the strategic importance of the player to the selling club. Should a deal materialise, it would place Chaiwa among a select group of Zambian players to feature prominently for major European clubs, following in the footsteps of legends like Kalusha Bwalya and more recently, Patson Daka. Such a high-profile transfer would undoubtedly elevate his international profile and further solidify his place in the Chipolopolo squad, potentially boosting Zambia's chances in upcoming Africa Cup of Na