Fabrizio Romano has today claimed that Celtic are in direct contact with Swedish defender Carl Starfelt over a move to Glasgow.

The 26-year-old is a regular for Rubin Kazan in Russia but the in-the-know journalist has claimed Celtic are set to make a formal bid for the centre-back.

The 26-year-old has been capped by Sweden on three occasions with his debut coming last year.

Starfelt is contracted to the Russian club until 2024 – so he would command a decent fee if Celtoc are to get him in the door.

The club are in desperate need of defensive reinforcements and Carl would fit the bill of an experienced defender who can slot straight into the side under new manager Ange Postecoglou.

Celtic are upping their efforts to strengthen their side and this move could be to facilitate the exit of Kristoffer Ajer who has made it known he would like to leave the club this summer.