Celtic

German duo one of 12 clubs interested in Manchester City winger Roberts

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Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim are leading the race to sign Manchester City winger Patrick Roberts this summer, according to The Scottish Sun.

The newspaper report that Hoffenheim, who are set to enter the qualification stages of the Champions League next season, are one of twelve clubs interested in acquiring the player on loan.

But the report also states that German rivals Schalke are also considered as frontrunners in the race to sign Roberts, with three unnamed Premier League clubs keen.

Dribbling maestro Roberts has had a storming season while on loan at Celtic from Man City, for whom he joined on an 18-month deal in January last year.

The 20-year-old has contributed 17 goals and 21 assists from his 59 appearances during his time at Parkhead, and the Scottish Sun report that Brendan Rodgers would love him to sign up for a second spell.

However, with his loan deal set to expire at the end of the month, Rodgers faces an uphill battle to retain his services for the long-term.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is likely to spend pre-season assessing Roberts, before deciding upon his role in the first-team squad for next season, but Rodgers will keep a close eye in case he becomes available again.

But the confirmed arrival of AS Monaco attacker Bernardo Silva could see Roberts face increased competition for a place in the starting eleven at the Etihad next term.

The England Under 21 international could be in line to make his final appearance for Celtic during their Scottish Cup Final clash with Aberdeen on Saturday.

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