NEIL LENNON has confirmed that Celtic have opened talks with Brighton central defender Shane Duffy about a potential move to the Scottish Champions. The Irishman confirmed that the club were keen on a move for the Derry-born defender but was coy about the details.

Speaking to OTB Sports, Lennon said that enquires had been made about bringing Duffy to Celtic Park as the manager looks to bolster his defensive line. Simunovic’s departure meant that just Ajer, Jullien and Bitton remained at the club in the central defensive position.

“We have made tentative enquiries and we’ll see how that goes.”

The 28-year-old is a hardened pro and he would bring a degree of experience and leadership to the backline. Duffy has Premier League experience and would be an impressive signing for the club, allowing them the ability to play 3-5-2 when need be as well as rotating the backline. The added bonus for the club is that Duffy is a Celtic supporter and will know exactly what 10IAR means to the club and supporters.

Celtic would need to pay £2m in a loan deal fee as well as the majority of the Derry-born defender’s wages. The club might hope that Neil Lennon’s powers of persuasion would entice him into a move to Glasgow. Although the Record’s report states that the fee required is a mere £5m, which could be manageable when you consider it would be £2m in loan fee plus wages.