CELTIC is firming as the club most likely to win the prized signature of Tom Rogic after the Central Coast Mariners yesterday denied receiving a $700,000 offer from English Premier League struggler Queens Park Rangers for Australia's hottest prospect to sign immediately.
Rogic is believed to have been pleasantly surprised by the friendliness and professionalism of the famous Scottish club over a three-day trial during its winter break in Spain.
The recently capped Socceroo has been targeted by several overseas clubs - the latest, as revealed by The Australian, being QPR.
Belgian side Club Brugge is also showing interest, as is English club Fulham.
According to Mariners director of football Lawrie McKinna, QPR, coached by Harry Redknapp, contacted the club on Sunday with a request for Rogic to trial. But McKinna said there was no mention of money.
"There's a lot of conjecture out there at the moment about Tommy but there is nothing concrete," he said. "He is still with Celtic and we are expecting him back this week, hopefully in time for the 'F3 Derby' against Newcastle.
"QPR sent us a letter on Sunday requesting permission for him to trial, and there was certainly no mention of money or an offer."
Despite his denial, a source suggested the $700,000 offer from QPR was legitimate.
While the Mariners stand to lose Rogic and possibly exciting striker Bernie Ibini, who is in Belgium training with Club Brugge, they have attempted to shore up their depth for next season by signing Nick Fitzgerald from Brisbane Roar.
Fitzgerald, 20, has signed a two-year deal after spending the past three seasons with the Roar. Meanwhile, Mariners coach Graham Arnold has been suspended for one match after being sent from the bench during the game against Melbourne Victory.
It means he will be forced to sit in the stands for Friday night's F3 Derby against Newcastle Jets.
Additional reporting: AAP
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