An Egyptian club have claimed Celtic missed the boat on a top African prospect.
Right-back Karim Fouad could have been a replacement for Jeremie Frimpong but he has opted to join Cairo giants Al Ahly.
Ange Postecoglou has admitted there is an "urgency" in several positions in the transfer market and moved to sign Osaze Urhoghide on Thursday, who can play across the defence.
But Hoops chiefs also made a bid to sign Nogoom FC's Fouad, according to the Giza club's president.
He's already been called up for the Egyptian Olympic side and has been widely praised for his versatility, having also played as a left back and a winger on both flanks with his club.
President Mohamed El Tawila said the player felt it was too soon for a move to Europe with interest from Portugal's Benfica too.
He said: "Celtic of Scotland made an offer to buy the player, but his preference was to move to Al Ahly.
"He also had an offer to go to Benfica on trial.
"The transfer is completed and he will join them after Al Ahly play Kaizer Chiefs in the African Champions League Final later this month."
The players' agent, John Edward, said: "Karim was on the radar of many European clubs, but he has made it clear he wants to sign for Al Ahly."
