Celtic are considering making a move for Bristol City’s £3million-rated Joe Bryan but face a fight from Premier League opposition, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper reported on their live transfer blog on their website earlier on Thursday that the Hoops could face competition for the wing-back from English top flight side Burnley and recently relegated Middlesbrough.
They also claim that Bristol City are reluctant to let the 23-year-old depart, but might have to accept a £3million offer as a result of their financial situation.
Bryan has come through the Robins’ youth ranks, having been born and raised in Bristol, and made his debut in a 3-2 over former Premier League champions Leicester City in 2012.
Since then, the defender, who can also operate as a left sided midfielder, has gone on to make 159 appearances in all competitions for his hometown club, scoring 11 goals.
Last season he proved his worth as a member of the first team squad, making 44 out of a possible 46 appearances in the Championship, scoring once and setting up five assists.
Were he to join up with Brendan Rodgers’ side, he would face a fight with fans’ favourite Emilio Izaguirre and fellow young left-back Kieran Tierney for a place in the starting XI.
However, it may prove that Bryan acts a replacement for the 20-year-old, with the Daily Star reporting that English giants Manchester United have been scouting the youngster ahead of a potential move, with Celtic valuing him at £15million.