NEIL LENNON has confirmed talks are ‘ongoing’ between the club and Bolton’s Luca Connell after the young Irishman was pictured at Celtic Park on Thursday afternoon.

The defensive midfielder has not signed a professional deal with his current side Bolton and Celtic believe Luca would be available for a free transfer or a nominal FIFA compensation fee.

However, Celtsarehere told you yesterday that reports in Bolton suggested otherwise.

Neil Lennon spoke to SunSport about interest in the player, which was hardly a secret when he was spotted trackside at Celtic Park.

“We believe he’s available on a free transfer and talks are ongoing.” the Celtic manager explained.

Connell, 18, played for Bolton’s first team last season. He was invited out at the start of the summer to train with the Republic of Ireland squad because the Irish setup are very high on the young star. It may not be long before he gets his first cap.

Christopher Jullien is set to be unveiled at Celtic Park today, Luca could be close behind him.