Raging Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has claimed that the club feel like they have been "blackmailed" into losing Teun Koopmeiners - in a deal that could fund a fresh attempt to sign Matt O'Riley.
Celtic have already kicked out FOUR bids from the Europa League winners as the Serie A side test the resolve of the Scottish Premiership champions to keep their star man this term - with reports suggesting that Atalanta have gone up to €23million (£20million) so far.
However, that is still below what the Hoops are demanding for the Danish international - who are said to be looking to land around €28million (£24million) for their prize asset.
The latest knock back from Celtic comes with midfielder Koopmeiners on the brink of a move to Juventus - that has sparked fury from Gasperini.