Celtic are in pole position to sign Brighton defender Shane Duffy this summer but his wages are providing a sticking point, Football Insider understands.
Hoops manager Neil Lennon admitted yesterday his club have made “tentative enquiries” over a move for the 28-year-old.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Duffy, 28, would prefer to join Celtic ahead of his other main suitors West Ham.
The Scottish giants are pursuing a loan move for the centre-back as they do not currently have the cash to land him permanently.
That has opened the door to West Ham, who have shortlisted Duffy as one of three centre-back targets along with Man City’s John Stones and Man United’s Phil Jones.
The Hammers are also looking at signing Duffy – or Stones and Jones – on loan – and are better placed to cover his salary for the season.