Out-of-favour Greg Taylor is reportedly "under consideration" by Celtic this summer as he was posted missing again for PAOK. Reports in Greece have suggested that boss Alessio Lisci is open to a departure for the Scotland cap after being impressed with Jonathan Gomez, who stepped in for Taylor during the Europa League qualifying win over Dynamo Kyiv earlier this week.
Taylor reportedly missed the game due to a personal matter, but Gomez has once again been given the nod for the second leg. The 28-year-old former Hoops star has failed to be named in the squad once again. It now appears likely Gomez will compete with Ghana international Baba Rahman for a starting spot at PAOK, leaving Taylor down the pecking order.
Return to Celtic an Option
The Herald note that a return to Celtic Park for the left-back is "an option" for the Scottish champions as they look to provide competition for Kieran Tierney, with several options being considered.
Speaking earlier this summer, Taylor admitted he would be "open" to returning to Parkhead, but his focus remained on success in Greece. He told Charlie Mulgrew: “Celtic’s an amazing club, but I’ve got two years left at PAOK, and I want to make that be a success there. But who knows. I would never say no to anything. I would be open to everything.”
Other Transfer Targets
Celtic are also keen on Haissem Hassan after the Real Oviedo star caught the eye at the World Cup with Egypt. Record Sport understands that Martin O'Neill's men are locked in talks with the Spanish outfit as they try to reach an agreement, although Oviedo have warned them that they are willing to play hardball.
La Voz de Asturias report that the player has returned to training following his heroics at the tournament, while Oviedo wait on a "firm offer" for the wide man. It is claimed they will only negotiate when the player's £10million release clause is met, despite the 24-year-old entering the final year of his contract.
Target Mika Baur was left out of the Paderborn squad for their friendly clash against Southampton on Wednesday, with the club stating he missed out through illness. However, it's believed that the 22-year-old has already agreed personal terms over a switch to Parkhead, but Paderborn are haggling over a fee. Going into Saturday's clash with VfL Osnabrück, German outlet Kicker has cast doubt over his long-term future at the club, noting "it remains to be seen whether Mika Baur will be back in the squad" for the pre-season clash.
