Celtic have suffered a ‘big hit’ in their attempts to sign Legia Warsaw’s Josip Juranovic, according to Croatian journalist Izak Ante Sucic.

The Hoops were first linked with a move for the 5 foot 9 Croatia international, while they were also looking at Royal Antwerp’s Aurelio Buta.

Celtic want to sign a right-back this month, with Ange Postecoglou relying heavily on Anthony Ralston so far this season.

A £3m move for Juranovic, who has featured as a right midfielder in each of his six starts this season, was reportedly close to completion, but it seems as if that transfer may now be in jeopardy.

The Latest: Sucic’s update

According to Sucic, who reports for Germanijak, Celtic’s formal offer was actually lower than their verbal agreement with Legia Warsaw.

He claimed on Friday evening that although a deal was not off, it has proven to be a ‘big hit’ which has changed ‘everything’.

“Update: As per our sources, deal is still not off, but there was a big hit. Verbally Celtic board agreed on one price, but then their formal offer was a lot smaller then expected. Both Juranovic and Legia Warszawa were interested, but this changes everything.”

Sucic added:

“At first, everyone expected easy deal for all three parties involved, Juranovic was interested, Legia willing to sell, Celtic in hurry to find new RB. Also, Celtic is looking into some other 'more cheaper' options. More to follow.”

The Verdict: ‘Cheaper’ option Couto?

Celtic’s cheaper option may well turn out to be Manchester City’s Yan Couto. The Hoops were holding out hope over a season-long loan deal for the 19-year-old, who attended Parkhead on Thursday for Celtic’s 3-0 win over Jablonec.

He now has his heart set on a move to Celtic Park, and although the Hoops seemingly tried to pull off a cut-price move for Juranovic, it appears as if they may well bolster their right-back ranks after all with the possible arrival of Couto.

In other news: Leeds now looking at Celtic's 'real deal' alongside move for Leo Hjelde, says Phil Hay – report.