CELTIC have reportedly rejected an approach from Udinese over the availability of Stephen Welsh.

It's claimed the Serie A club enquired over a deal for Welsh but were quickly informed Celtic were not interested in any discussions.

Sky Sports claim Udinese were keen on talks over an initial loan swoop with an option to buy clause in the agreement.

However, the outlet reports Celtic are not interested in allowing Welsh to leave the club instead seeing his future at Parkhead.

The 21-year-old has played 19 games so far this season under manager Ange Postecoglou.

He first burst onto the scene at Celtic under Neil Lennon when he stepped in to replace the injured Christopher Jullien.

Welsh is currently contracted until at least the summer of 2025 after signing a new four-year deal in April last year.

At the time, he said: “I’m delighted to get it done and I’m here for another four years which is the perfect scenario for me."