BRENDAN RODGERS will reject a loan bid for Gary Mackay-Steven for the second transfer window in a row.
In the summer Ross County fancied their chances of luring the winger back to the Highlands but despite media speculation that the deal was on, Rodgers had no intention of allowing the player to leave.
Now Dundee United have enquired about taking their former player on a six months loan deal.
Tannadice boss Ray McKinnon has targeted the club’s former winger as he aims to beat Hibs to the Championship title.
However, Mackay-Steven has managed to play himself back into Rodgers’ first team and will remain at Parkhead.
McKinnon said: “I am looking for somebody who is going to unlock defences and contribute with goals, as well.
“We want a bit of flair and creativity along with a goalscorer.”
The Hoops are open to offers for several of their fringe players to enable Rodgers to add to his squad further, following the £2.8million capture of 19-year-old Ivorian midfielder Kouassi Eboue.
Portuguese reports linking Celtic with a move for 22-year-old Belenenses midfielder Fabio Sturgeon have been dismissed by the Premiership leaders.
Hibs are also in talks to keep Kris Commons on loan for the rest of the season.
McKinnon could have more luck if he enquired about another former Dundee United man. Nadir Ciftci is keen to play football again and Rodgers would certainly not stand in his way if the Tannadice club were to enquire.
Yesterday we wrote about how Lisbon Lion Bertie Auld rates Gary Mackay-Steven and reckons that he will make a big impression at Celtic in 2017…read the interview with Bertie HERE.
Hoops Stars and Stripes – The Andy Lynch Story by Paul Dykes has been nominated by The Scotsman as one of the sports books of the year. It is a fascinating book, brilliantly written by the author of both Quality Street Gang and Celtic’s Smiler – The Neilly Mochan Story.
When you order Hoops Stars and Stripes from CQN Bookstore you will receive a copy signed by former Celtic skipper Andy Lynch PLUS a free copy of Charlie Gallagher? What a Player! which will be signed by Charlie! Order HERE or click on the ad below.
