During a January transfer window where a centre-back was a priority, Celtic explored permanent deals but ultimately made none, opting to pursue loans instead. One of the options considered was Filip Benković, a 28-year-old Croatian defender. A potential transfer for Benković could have been completed for a fee of approximately £860,000. The defender is now a consistent starter with AIK, having made 27 league appearances in 2025. Benković, who has one cap for Croatia, joined AIK in January 2025 and is under contract until the end of 2026. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt at €1.50m, and it was reported in August 2025 that AIK rejected an offer from a club in one of Europe's top five leagues.