Twente sporting director Jan Streuer has confirmed that Celtic were interested in signing Sondre Orjasaeter, although the winger 'really wanted' a move to the Eredivisie.
The Norwegian recently joined Twente from Sarpsborg in his homeland for a reported fee of €5 million plus bonuses.
Celtic have been linked with a move for Orjasaeter since the January transfer window, and it appears their interest was genuine.
"He definitely had more options," said Streuer of Orjasaeter when he joined Twente [RecordSport]. "Celtic, for example, also wanted him; he's been there."
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The player, however, wanted to head to the Eredivisie, hence the Bhoys didn't secure his services.
"He could have gone to other countries," Streuer added. "But he really wanted to go to the Netherlands.
"In my opinion, that's also a great step for a young player's development."
Although they missed out on Orjasaeter, Celtic could yet sign Slovan Bratislava forward David Strelec.
His father, Milan, says the Parkhead club remain interested in a transfer.
He said: "When Slovan were trying to win through to the main stages of the Champions League again, the club's management would not consider David's transfer.
"Or at least it was not high on their agenda.
"But now I presume things will start to happen before the August deadline.
"Things will start heating up around David again.
"As far as I know, several clubs are still interested, including Celtic and Middlesbrough and we know both had bids for him in the past.
"So I am curious what will happen in the remaining few days before the deadline."
