CHAMPIONS LEAGUE semi-finalists Lyon have emerged as rivals to Celtic for left-back Aaron Hickey. The 18-year-old is entering his last year with the Tynecastle side and a host of clubs including Bologna, Bayern Munich and the Scottish Champions have been linked with the signature of the starlet.

The Scottish Sun are reporting that the French side have joined the race for Hickey – who has a price on his head around £1.8m. In the aftermath of the Bolingoli-Spain scandal, Neil Lennon may still eye Hickey as a potential backup to Greg Taylor at Celtic with the club having a clause in the deal for the youngster that may make them favourable suitors for the Edinburgh club.

In 33 appearances for Hearts, Hickey has caught the eye of a number of potential suitors and a move for him would still make sense especially as the club look for another left back. Celtic are facing tough competition with some top teams quoted as being interested in bringing in the young defender.

One thing appears certain and that is that Hickey won’t be playing football in the Championship, unlike his Hearts teammates who have a season in the second tier to look forward to.