Celtic and Manchester City are ‘locked’ in a battle to try and sign highly rated defensive midfielder Jose Cifuentes after reports overnight emerged.

If you’re thinking why Celtic would stand any chance if Manchester City we’re sniffing around it seems to be surrounding the player’s work permit. If City sign the Ecuador’s Under-20 then they would likely have to loan the player out to Girona until they can sort out a work permit for him. English work permits are harder to gain for players coming in from South America. It’s believed Celtic would be able to get the necessary documents in order to register the defensive midfielder from the off according to SunSport.

The player has a ‘bargain’ £2.5million transfer fee on his head with his current side America de Quito and there are more than just just City and Celtic sniffing around.

Celtic are still to officially make their first signing of the season with David Turnbull expected to be announced on Monday.