Celtic are taking a close look at Finn Harps teenager Gavin McAteer, with the Republic of Ireland youth international spending the week training at Lennoxtown.
The 16-year-old, who’s already made a name for himself back home with over two dozen senior appearances, is the latest young talent to be invited in as the Parkhead club steps up its recruitment of promising prospects.
Donegall Live say that Celtic are ‘very interested’ in the player.
McAteer, a regular in Ireland’s U17 setup, will return to his club duties later this week as Harps prepare to face Athlone Town in the League of Ireland First Division. Despite his age, he’s been a fixture in the Harps midfield and is already being watched by several clubs beyond Ireland.
Nottingham Forest had the Donegal-born midfielder in earlier this year, but Celtic have moved to get a closer look for themselves. The trial will give the coaching staff a chance to assess McAteer’s fit for the club’s long-term plans, possibly with the B team or development squad in mind.
Having him move to Glasgow, at his age, isn’t exactly straightforward. The Irish Independent reports that players aged 16-18 may require a Governing Body Endorsement, which could throw a spanner in the works, but Celtic should be able to get a deal over the line, if they choose to.
