Celtic appear to have missed out on one of their mooted summer transfer targets this week and it could prove to be a decision that's rued at Parkhead...

What's the word?

According to Italian transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio, Serie A outfit Bologna have managed to secure Hearts left-back Aaron Hickey despite interest from Bayern Munich as well as the Scottish champions.

He's set to join on loan with an obligation to buy of just €2m (£1.8m) with the deal expected to be announced within the next few days.

The Daily Record noted the Bhoys' interest back in June, claiming that the club were keen to bring him back to Celtic Park after impressing at their SPFL rivals.

Massive mistake

Whilst Neil Lennon has Greg Taylor at his disposal in the role, he could do with some competition and someone who could have followed in the footsteps of the legendary Kieran Tierney.

Former Jam Tarts caretaker boss Austin McPhee likened him to former United centre-back Jonny Evans as well as Spanish anchorman Sergio Busquets due to his "remarkable" ability to play in multiple positions and in "the way he defends".

Hickey can play left-back, centre-back as well as in defensive midfield very much akin to Tierney, who has played in the middle for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta.

While his old manager Daniel Stendel described the 18-year-old as a new Phillip Lahm with "extraordinary talent," so no wonder the Bundesliga giants have also been keen.

At such a low fee of around £1.8m, this really would have been a low-risk signing with the potential of some high rewards and not only that, the Glasgow-based outfit would have had a potential generational Scottish star on their hands, which would bode well for football north of the border.

You can't help but feel that Nick Hammond should have pushed harder to secure Hickey, they may well live to regret it later down the line.

AND in other news, Lennon makes approach for Serie A colossus...