SERIE A giants Lazio are reportedly tracking Celtic target Aaron Hickey. The Hearts left-back has been linked with Celtic for a number of months and with just one year left on his contract, the Scottish Champions could still make a move for the 17-year-old.

However, it appears that Neil Lennon’s side could face a degree of competition with the Scottish Sun reporting that Celtic’s Europa League rivals from last season Lazio are tracking Hickey. The report stats that the Italian side were watching the highly rated youngster before Coronavirus halted football.

The report has linked Hickey with moves to Crystal Palace, Manchester City and now Lazio as a move away from Tynecastle seems likely. Hickey came through the youth ranks at Celtic before moving to the Edinburgh side and retain a sell-on clause in his contract. This could allow for Celtic and Hearts to conduct a deal for the left-back as Hearts look set to drop down to the Championship.

Ann Budge’s reconstruction attempt is yet to be decided; however, if Hearts are relegated as expected, the hierarchy at the club will want to maximise their player sales meaning with one year remaining, Hickey is likely to move on if they cannot agree a new contract.

Hickey turns 18 this month and a move to Celtic Park would be a huge step up for him but he can take heart from Jeremie Frimpong’s rapid progress at the club. The Dutch full-back joined from Manchester City and has become a first team regular at 18.

Celtic already have Greg Taylor and Boli Bolingoli in the left back berth; however, following Jonny Hayes’ departure, the club may be looking to strengthen in the area as neither Bolingoli nor Taylor have kept the jersey all season.