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

LUSAKA – Scottish Premiership champions Celtic are reportedly maintaining their keen interest in acquiring the services of Zambian international midfielder Miguel Chaiwa from fellow Scottish club Hibernian. However, sources close to the negotiations suggest that Celtic is currently unwilling to meet Hibs' reported asking price of £5 million for the promising 22-year-old talent. Chaiwa, who has been a standout performer for Hibernian since his move, has attracted significant attention from various clubs, with Celtic emerging as a persistent suitor. The Glasgow club is understood to be monitoring the situation closely, weighing up the financial implications of a potential transfer against the player's considerable on-field value and future potential. While a £5 million fee is being floated, Celtic's current stance indicates they might be looking for a more financially palatable deal, possibly around the £3-4 million mark, or exploring alternative structures for the transfer. This transfer speculation underscores a growing trend of Zambian footballers making their mark in competitive European leagues. Chaiwa's journey from the Zambian Super League to the Scottish Premiership, and now potentially to one of Scotland's biggest clubs, serves as an inspiration for aspiring young talents across the nation. His consistent performances and maturity beyond his years have made him a valuable asset for both club and country, earning him caps for the Chipolopolo. The potential move to Celtic would offer Chaiwa a platform to compete in the UEFA Champions League, a significant step up that could further elevate his profile and development. Such exposure is crucial for Zambian players aiming to reach the pinnacle of international football. For Hibernian, while losing a key player would be a blow, a substantial transfer fee would provide vital funds for squad rebuilding and investment. As the transfer window progresses, the footballing world, particularly in Zambia and Scotland, w