LAST NIGHT it appeared that Celtic were closing in on signing 33-year-old free transfer Steven Fletcher. Although, it would appear that the deal is off after Celtic offered the former Hibs and Burnley man a take it or leave it one year deal and the big man would rather a two year deal.

Celtic have been linked with Ivan Toney from Brentford and Ajeti on a loan-to-buy agreement from the Hammers. Last night it appeared that free agent Fletcher had become the favourite to join the club.

Although, it appears that no deal could be reached meaning that the club have walked away from negotiations instead focusing on bringing in either Swiss Internationalist Albian Ajeti or Peterborough’s Ivan Toney.

Fletcher had an impressive season in the English Championship but left Sheffield Wednesday following the expiry of his deal. In 31 starts, the veteran bagged 13 goals and 2 assists. He would’ve provided a target man option as Bayo nears the exit but his signing may have hampered attempts to sign another forward, seeing it as too much competition.

Celtic are in the market for a new striker as the Scottish Champions look to offload Bayo to Toulouse in the coming days. Klimala has become the second striker with Leigh Griffiths being nudged to third choice in recent weeks. Another striker would allow Lennon to play 3-5-2 when needed.