Celtic could be set to lose out on Barcelona starlet Alex Collado, according to reports.

The 23-year-old is among a host of players who will be allowed to leave the Camp Nou this summer, in a bid to get their raft of new summer signings registered.

Ange Postecoglou’s side up are up against the likes of Olympiacos, Real Valladolid and Girona in the fight for the midfielder's signature.

Collado’s preferred move is believed to be to a club playing European football next season, something the Hoops can offer.

However, according to Relevo and Spanish journalist Albert Roge, it’s other La Liga side Elche CF who are leading the race and are in “advanced talks” over a move.

The Spaniard made 17 appearances on loan at Granada last season - including agaisnt his parent club Barca.