Celtic have been handed a potential boost to their hopes of securing a summer deal for reported transfer target Vinicius Souza from Lommel SK.

What's the news?

According to journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Lommel are close to securing a transfer deal for Troyes midfielder Metinho. According to the Daily Record, that could give Celtic the green light to launch a move for Souza, who is currently owned by the Belgian club.

After starting his career with Flamengo, the 23-year-old joined Lommel in October 2020. Since then, the Brazilian has made just 19 appearances for the club across all competitions.

Last season saw the midfielder complete a loan spell with fellow Belgian side KV Mechelen, which ended up being rather fruitful for the player.

With 27 league appearances to his name, the Brazilian made more interceptions (64) and won more tackles (66) than any other player at Mechelen.

This highlights his defensive capabilities and how tough an opponent he can be without the ball, making him a rather useful asset for Celtic should they secure his signature this summer. In fact, he was labelled an "athletic" player and a "machine" on the pitch by Lawrence Shankland, who has played against him in Belgium in recent months.

Postecoglou will be buzzing

Bearing in mind how Lommel have already sent Souza out on loan and are now looking to bring another midfielder into their squad, it's easy to see why it could be construed that the door may now be open for the Hoops to make an official move to sign the player.

Having already secured deals for the likes of Jota, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Benjamin Siegrist and Alexandro Bernabei this summer, the Parkhead club have once again shown that they aren't shy when it comes to splashing the cash to strengthen their squad.

Should the Bhoys make an attempt to sign the midfielder in the coming weeks, it could cost them a reported fee of £8m, which we feel would be an investment worth making for the club and will surely have Ange Postecoglou buzzing, given the Brazilian's young age and clear talent.

With all this in mind, and with Tom Rogic and Nir Bitton leaving the club following the end of the 2021/22 season, securing a deal for Souza should be at the top of the club's priority list before their next campaign kicks off at the end of this month.

AND in other news - Anthony Joseph drops big transfer update, it’s great news for Celtic supporters