Celtic are reportedly on the verge of finalising the signing of Morton youngster Isaac English, with the deal expected to be completed later this afternoon, according to the Greenock Telegraph.

The 17-year-old defender is set to put pen to paper on a move to Parkhead after both clubs agreed a fee in the region of £50,000. Celtic have acted quickly to snap up the highly-rated defender, who has been attracting attention following his impressive displays at youth level.

English has enjoyed a strong season with Morton’s under-18s, helping them secure the Club Academy Scotland Performance League title and reach the CAS Cup final.

His standout performances throughout the campaign have marked him out as one of the most promising young defenders in the country at his age group. He was also handed a taste of the senior setup, being named as a substitute for Morton’s Championship clash against Ayr United in March.

Despite still having 12 months to run on his apprentice contract at Cappielow, Morton have sanctioned the move, with Celtic keen to strengthen their youth ranks with one eye on the long-term pathway to the first team. The fee involved reflects both the player’s potential and the success Morton have had in developing young talent within their academy system.

Once the deal is completed, English is expected to join up with Celtic’s development squad, where he will continue his progression under the guidance of the club’s coaching staff.

The move adds to Celtic’s ongoing recruitment of young Scottish talent, as they continue to build for the future both domestically and in Europe.

The transfer is expected to be concluded very soon.