[ad_pod ]

Celtic have been credited with an interest in Fulham's Tyrese Francois by Sky Sports.

What's the word?

The midfielder is out of contract at the end of this season, at which point Celtic would be able to sign him in a compensation deal.

Celtic have exploited this route in recent seasons and were able to turn around a huge profit on Moussa Dembele as well as using the striker to help the Hoops to a double treble.

Celtic are fairly well off for midfielders, but are always on the lookout for emerging talents.

Crystal Palace and Valencia are also interested in Francois, suggesting he has some potential - either that or a very imaginative agent.

Shrewd business

Selectively picking up on this type of signing has to be a very viable option for Celtic in the current market place.

Showcasing Dembele has to be the way ahead - illustrating what two Champions League campaigns can do for a player's profile.

18-year-old Francois could well enjoy a similar rise if opportunities allow him to be involved in Celtic's first team squad next season, although he's yet to feature for Fulham in senior competition outside of the EFL trophy.