Jozo Simunovic isn’t interested in leaving Celtic.
French side Lille were recently linked with a £5m move for the defender but that won’t be sanctioned while Celtic are involved in Champions League qualifiers.
Simunovic signed a new contract last September but has been linked with a move in almost every transfer window since signing from Dinamo Zagreb three years ago.
Most famously the 23-year-old was in talks with Torino about a move to Serie A in August 2016 but concerns about his fitness resulted in that deal falling through.
Bringing in a commanding centre half has been the demand of many Celtic fans over the last year but after starting against Alashkert Simunovic has no intention of moving anywhere else.
“I definitely want to stay and play in the Champions League again,” he told The Sun. “I’m still a Celtic player and I’m happy here. I’m just looking forward.
“I don’t worry about interest from other clubs. I’m here and I’m happy playing games. That’s the most important things.”
He added: “It’s not just about me, a lot of clubs are keen on other boys.
“You can be sure that we are giving everything here and aren’t thinking about offers. Celtic play European football every year.
“Every player in the world wants to play in the Champions League. It’s the best competition there is.”
“I definitely feel much better than last season. Injuries are part of football especially if you are playing in every game.
“You need some time to adapt yourself to play the number of games Celtic play but I am here and going day by day. I feel better than last year and that’s the most important thing.
“Of course there’s competition for places but I’m here and I’m not scared of anybody. I believe in myself.
“The gaffer needs to pick the best players to play. I have nothing against that.
“The competition is something I welcome. You need that, players pushing you more and more. I’m looking forward to the season.”
Celtic’s return leg next Wednesday against Alashkert is now a formality with the hoops facing Rosenborg or Valur in the second qualifying round for the Champions League.
