Celtic have stepped up their interest in Josip Juranovic as Man City's Yan Couto is at the top of Braga's wish-list.

Brazilian right-back Couto had been at Parkhead watching the Hoops beat Jablonec in their Europa League qualifier last week.

But while the 19-year-old was in Glasgow his agent is understood to have been in Portugal discussing a potential loan switch to Braga who have been keen on the youngster all summer.

Nothing was finalised at the time however Herald and Times Sport understands Couto is now likely to head to Braga on a season-long switch, with La Liga 2 outfit Girona also still holding out hope of convincing the defender to move to Spain.

Celts, meanwhile, have always been in contact with Juranovic's representatives and want a deal done ahead of their AZ Alkmaar tie this week. It is not expected to go through before that time but a £2.5million offer could still be tabled.

It is understood Legia Warsaw are willing to sell as they need the cash following their exit from the Champions League and are ready to allow their player to move on.

Ange Postecoglou is in need of reinforcements at full-back on the right-hand side with just Anthony Ralston available.

And Juranovic, 26, fits the bill with his pace going forward and his crossing abilities.

He was Croatia's first-choice right-back at Euro 2020 and played against Scotland in their 3-1 group win over the Scots at Hampden Park back in June.