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Celtic identify 'prime targets' to replace Arne Engels as former Rangers chief makes big push for star Celtic are set to lose a key star to West Ham United after a major push by an ex Rangers transfer chief. Celtic are said to have listed two stars to replace West Ham United-bound Arne Engels - after a former Rangers chief’s big push to sign him. The Hammers are seeking an immediate return to the Premier League and are set to pay in excess of £20m for the Belgian midfielder. Nils Koppen was previously head of scouting then technical director at Rangers and now works as West Ham’s director of recruitment. He’s made a big play to bring Engels in ahead of their Championship campaign and it leaves Celtic needing a replacement. Hadjuk Split’s Niko Sigur and Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis are the players in the frame. £3m could be enough for Sigur, who can also cover at right-back while Alistair Johnston is injured, and luring Gineitis from Italy could include competition with ex-Rangers boss Danny Rohl who now operates as RB Salzburg head coach. Who do Celtic want to replace Arne Engels with? Sky Sports state: “Celtic have already drawn up a shortlist of potential targets to replace West Ham-bound Arne Engels. Sky Sports News understands Hadjuk Split’s Niko Sigur and Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis are the prime targets for this position. Celtic held an interest in Sigur under Wilfried Nancy in January, but no move was made after the Frenchman’s sacking. “The Canada international, 22, can play as a central midfielder but also as a right-back – a position the Scottish champions are looking to cover while Alistair Johnston remains on the sidelines through injury. It’s believed Hadjuk Split value Sigur at around £3m. The player has two years left on his contract and is believed to be keen on joining Celtic. “Gineitis has been on the list this summer, but is likely to cost a lot more. Torino are said to be looking for a deal worth around £10m for the Lithuania international. RB Salzburg, who are managed by former Rangers boss Danny Rohl, have already had an offer rejected for the 22-year-old.” Why are West Ham United signing Arne Engels? A report from the Athletic on West Ham’s pursuit of Engels state: “West Ham United are confident of completing a move for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels in a deal worth around £22million. “Nils Koppen, West Ham’s director of player recruitment, has played a key role in pushing for the 22-year-old’s signature. Sources with knowledge of the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect relationships, say Koppen, appointed in July, rates Engels highly and viewed him as a top transfer target.”