Henrik Larsson has told Neil Lennon that striker Mohamed Bangura would make an impact at Parkhead – but the Hoops boss faces a fight to secure the signature of the AIK Stockholm forward.

Celtic are set to table a £2million bid for Bangura, but reports that the player is due in Glasgow this morning for a medical are wide of the mark, suggesting that there is a bit of work still to be done on the deal.

Celtic's chief scout John Park watched the 22-year-old play yesterday but Blackburn and a Middle East club are also thought to be watching the Sierra Leone international.

Larsson, currently manager of Swedish side Landskrona said: "Celtic called and asked me, so I told them what I thought about him," he said. "I spoke to Neil and Johan Mjallby.

"I said that Mohamed is a clever, intelligent player. He is quick and strong, even if he isn't even 180cm tall (5ft 9in). And most importantly – he knows how to score."

Bangura will team up with his international side this morning and is in the dark about his immediate future.

"I know Celtic were here and watched me," he said. "It is a good club, but I don't think anything is done or near yet. I'm not going to Glasgow today, I am going with the national team to Sierra Leone. I know many clubs are interested, but it is up to AIK. I am not stressed."

The player admits he was flattered to hear about Larsson's recommendation.

"It is so flattering to hear Henrik likes me," he said. "He is a legend at Celtic and a true star. I am proud that he likes the way I play.

"I will try my best, but I can't be Henrik, I can only be Mohamed. He is an idol, but I want to do it my way.

"I know clubs look for 15-goal strikers, but you never know.

"If clubs want me, it is because of my qualities, not because of some number."

Meanwhile, Celtic's resolve could also be tested in the next 48 hours with moves for South Korean international Ki Sung-Yueng imminent.

Blackburn have had a £6m bid for the player knocked back, but it is believed that a £7m bid from Russia has also been tabled.

Celtic are reluctant to allow the midfielder to leave, but they would find it difficult to turn down such a serious offer for the player.