Celtic manager Neil Lennon has told any interested parties to forget about a January deal for winger James Forrest.

Cardiff are the latest of a number of Premier League sides to have registered an interest in the Scottish international, who has been one of the SPL’s leading names for some time.

The 22-year-old is thought to have ambitions of playing in England, but has elected to remain in his homeland up until now thanks to guaranteed first-team action in Glasgow.

Lennon – who admitted recently that goalkeeper Fraser Forster may be sold – says that he understands why so many clubs are monitoring Forrest, but went on to issue a hands off warning.

"It wouldn't be a surprised if other clubs were looking at James because he is a brilliant player," Lennon told Sky Sports.

"But he signed a long-term contract 18 months ago. We are months and months away from the window - he is not for sale.

"We are in a very stable position as a club and that is something which is a rarity in this day and age.

"The players are happy, vibrant and we have a lot to look forward to.”

Forrest is a product of Scottish giants’ youth set-up and is a crowd favourite at Celtic Park.

He made his international debut in 2011, and is believed to be on Malky Mackay’s radar ahead of the New Year.

Could James Forrest be a Premier League hit?

Join the debate below!

[ad_pod id='capone' align='center']