CELTIC are reportedly in advanced talks to sign Canada World Cup standout performer Alistair Johnston.

The defender impressed on the world stage despite his country's opening defeat to Belgium in Qatar on Wednesday.

It's claimed Ange Postecoglou is an admirer of Johnston and keen on a deal to bring the right-sided stopper to Glasgow in January.

Reports in the United States suggest Celtic are deep in discussions to sign Johnston from CF Montreal.

Johnston, 24, only joined the MLS side from rival club Nashville SC in December in a deal worth £800,000.

But he could be on the move again in January with Celtic reportedly closing in on a transfer agreement with Montreal.

MLS insider Tom Bogert reported the clubs are in advanced discussions after an initial report from Manuel Veth.

Mr Bogert reports that a deal has not yet been agreed but talks are at an advanced stage. 

He goes on to state that Nashville would take a 10 per cent cut of any transfer fee.

Celtic have already completed their first signing of the January window despite there being more than a month until the window opens.

Celtic announced the signing of Yuki Kobayashi yesterday with the left-sided central defender agreeing a five-year deal at Parkhead.

On signing for Celtic, Kobayashi said:"I am so excited to be joining Celtic and I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity.  

"I will be giving everything to try and be successful with the Club.

'Right across the world, everyone knows what a special club Celtic is and it will be a real honour to wear this fantastic jersey.'

“The work of Ange Postecoglou is also really well-known in Japan after he had such a great time in the J League, and as well as being part of Celtic I can’t wait to work with him as a coach and the great team of players he has already developed.

“I know that Celtic over so many years has such a brilliant track record of success and I now want to play my part in bringing more great moments to the Club and our fans."

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