Celtic are stepping up their transfer activity with Oliver Sørensen having completed a medical in London ahead of a proposed loan move from Parma, while PSV Eindhoven midfielder Joël van den Berg is in Glasgow to finalise a deal worth about £3.4m.
Sørensen, 24, is expected to join the Scottish champions on loan as manager Martin O’Neill looks to strengthen his midfield before the transfer window closes. Van den Berg, 19, is also undergoing the final stages of his move and is understood to be in line for a long-term contract.
The double midfield push comes as Celtic prepare for the likely departure of Reo Hatate. The 28-year-old Japan international is nearing a move to an English Championship club after his future at Parkhead became increasingly uncertain.
Celtic are also exploring options in goal. Talks have opened with Wolves over a loan deal for former England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, 33, while the club are expected to renew their interest in Blackburn Rovers’ Hungary international Balázs Tóth.
Johnstone’s possible arrival would provide competition and experience between the posts, although Tóth remains another option being considered by the club.
At full-back, Celtic are increasing their efforts to sign Niels Nkounkou from Eintracht Frankfurt. The 25-year-old Frenchman had been expected to join Nice, but Celtic are now attempting to divert the move to Glasgow.
There is less certainty over Gvidas Gineitis, with Torino having rejected an offer for the 22-year-old Lithuania midfielder over the weekend. Unless Celtic return with an improved bid, he is expected to remain in Italy.
Celtic also hold an interest in Southampton right-back Yukinari Sugawara, although the 26-year-old Japan international is close to agreeing a loan move to Serie A side Cagliari. Chelsea winger Kendry Páez, 19, has meanwhile emerged as a possible loan target.
The flurry of activity reflects Celtic’s desire to add depth and quality across the squad, particularly in midfield, as Hatate’s anticipated departure approaches and the transfer deadline draws near.
