IT LOOKS LIKE CHARLY BHOY

The Hoops have been scouting the highly-rated playmaker who has spent most of the past two seasons on loan in La Liga with Real Betis.

Musonda has two years left on his Stamford Bridge deal, but could make a permanent switch to Parkhead after talks with Brendan Rodgers .

The 20-year-old has been hailed as a future star in his homeland having come through the Anderlecht academy before joining the Chelsea system in 2015.

Rodgers remained tightlipped on the Musonda link, but admitted he’s close to landing a skilful operator to perform in the middle of the park.

“He is young, but is a big talent who has got experience. It’s good money that will be spent on him,” he said.

“The player I’m talking about is of a substantial pedigree and quality.

“We have players who can play there, but it’s about getting pace and power and also another one who can make the last pass.

“I felt that was something I wanted to add. We are hopeful we can get that.

“Someone of that ability in there, it’s how the make-up of my teams have always been.

“Look at Liverpool with Daniel Sturridge, Luis Suarez and Coutinho. Bright, clever players who can disorganise defenders.

“They can attack but they also need to have the profile to press.”

The Hoops boss added: “I’m not in the market to just spend because someone is a name. They have to be the right player and fit in with what we are doing.

“If the right players are available, it’s just a matter of timing.

“The market down south is greater than it has ever been and they all can’t play every week.

“But that doesn’t stop us looking in other parts of the world, too.

“We have been quite extensive in our search, but we are quite specific in terms of what we want.

“A lot of football now is about game-time and money. A squad player down south may be on £65k-70k a week. It’s tough.

“But we have tried to provide a pathway, a real attractive possibility for players. That worked last year and set a positive marker for players as it showed what a great opportunity it can be to come to Celtic.”

CHECK OUT CQN Magazine later this evening for the latest edition of the CQN Podcast featuring among other items, an interview with the President of the SFA!

Meanwhile if you haven’t caught up with the latest edition featuring Lisa Hague talking about her family’s love of Celtic then the link is below.