CELTIC'S attempts to keep defender Virgil van Dijk look doomed after the player intimated a strong desire to quit Glasgow.

Van Dijk has urged the club to cash in on him now, insisting that he wants to go.

The central defender has expressed his disappointment at the Scottish champions' refusal to accept bids for him despite knowing of his desire to move on.

He told Dutch magazine Voetbal: "There has been interest every summer and winter, especially from the Barclays Premier League. I stood there open to it, but Celtic decided not to sell me at that time. Yes, I was disappointed."

He added: "They must understand that as a footballer, sometimes it's time to make a move. Of course, the Champions League millions are important for Celtic, but they cannot dismiss any interest.

"If the correct amount is placed on the table, then they will really think about it, yes. If Celtic want to earn money from me, the club must act now."

The 23-year-old has long spoke of his desire to play for the Dutch national team in the European Championships in France next summer and believes only a move to England or further afield can confirm that.

However, his defensive partner at Celtic last season, Jason Denayer, has subsequently proved that it is possible to secure international football after excelling for Belgium last weekend.

Van Dijk, though, seems intent on pursuing pastures new.

"It's a dream and a goal to play for the Oranje," said van Dijk. "When you play in the Premier League, you are more in the picture. That is clear. Whether that's right, I'll leave it to others.

"There are several people who have advised me to leave Scotland. This was mainly to move a step higher, but also the Holland team plays a role. The next major finals in France. I have to go for it, but this is only possible if I perform well in a club."

"I am 24 this year, I'm ready for something new - more pressure, better opponents."

Meanwhile, Celtic are the first Scottish football club to be awarded the prestigious National Club Licensing Platinum Award by the SFA.

Chief executive Peter Lawwell said: "We are delighted to be the first Scottish club to receive the Platinum Award.

"Celtic aims at all times to be a world-class football club in everything we do and this award is recognition of the high standards of governance across many areas, which the club has met for some time."