DUNDEE UNITED have told Celtic that it will take well over £1m to do a deal for Nadir Ciftci.
John Collins, the Celtic assistant manager, has confirmed the Parkhead club are trying to secure the services of the Turkish striker, who has been a long-term target for the SPFL Premiership champions.
"I believe there is an approach but that's all I've heard and there's not a lot I can tell you," Collins said.
"He has obviously played against us many times last year, he's a big striker, he's strong, he's powerful and he's got technique as well. We like him.
"We're looking to strengthen the squad but unfortunately we can't talk about other players at other clubs. It would be unfair and disrespectful to the other clubs to do that but we are looking for new players."
An initial bid of £900,000 was turned down by the Tayside club, but with Belgian target Jelle Vossen reported to be talking to Sky Bet Championship side Burnley over a transfer, Ciftci is high on Celtic manager Ronny Deila's agenda.
Middlesbrough are also keen on the 23-year-old and are ready to up the ante with a concrete bid in excess of £1.5m.
Ciftci has been a success at Tannadice since signing from Dutch club NAC Breda two years ago and has turned down the offer of a contract extension.
He is also facing the possibility of a lengthy ban from the sport after being accused of biting Dundee's Jim McAlister in the final Tayside derby of last season. He will appear at an SFA hearing on July 20.
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