Celtic close in on deal for midfielder

Daniel Kelly and Celtic are reportedly nearing an agreement on a new deal.

The midfielder, whose contract expires at the end of this year, has started three of Celtic’s past four games as a

substitute and scored in the team’s 7-1 victory over Dundee.

Injuries to Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate, together with David Turnbull’s move to Cardiff, have left Brendan Rodgers with few choices,

and Kelly is seizing his chances.

The 18-year-old has the advantage in contract discussions because he is in the final year of his deal,

but Celtic has known him since elementary school,

so the team should be able to work out a solution that works for everyone.

Scott Burns, a transfer specialist, reports in the Daily Record:

Celtic is very close to signing Daniel Kelly to a new contract.

The club has now proposed an extension for the teenager, whose contract expires at the end of the current campaign.

Celtic is optimistic in reaching an agreement with the teenager and wants to sign him long-term.

In recent weeks, the 18-year-old has succeeded in breaking into Brendan Rodgers’ squad and making an immediate impression.

He scored his first goal as a senior in the recent Premiership rout of Dundee.

Kelly is highly regarded and has been a consistent member of Celtic’s B and Under-18 teams.

Although RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen in Germany have been connected to him, he would love to remain at

Parkhead. He has also expressed interest in England.

Rather than take the chance of losing Kelly for training compensation at the conclusion of the season, Celtic are eager to resolve his future.

It has taken some time for Celtic supporters to witness a true star come out of the club Academy.

While Tony Ralston, Stephen Welsh, and Mikey Johnston have all had significant roles in recent years,

none of them have cemented a spot like Kieran Tierney has.