Celtic have reportedly shown "tentative" interest in Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope as the transfer deadline approaches. The Scottish champions are facing a last-gasp rush for recruits before Tuesday's deadline.
Martin O'Neill admitted he expects a late flurry of activity in the market following the 2-1 win over Falkirk on Sunday. Chelsea's Landon Emenalo is expected to fill the void at left-back and provide cover for Kieran Tierney, while a host of goalkeeping targets have been floated to provide competition for Viljami Sinisalo.
Pope's situation at Newcastle
Wolves' back-up Sam Johnstone and Blackburn Rovers No. 1 Balasz Toth have been mentioned, but a move for England cap Pope also appears to be in the works. The 34-year-old had been Newcastle's first-choice goalkeeper under Eddie Howe, but has fallen out of favour since the arrival of new head coach Matthias Jaissle.
Lukas Hornicek has come in as the new No. 1 while Ewen Jaouen is warming the bench this term - leaving Pope out of the squad, and ramping up speculation the England cap could leave. The Journal report there has been "tentative interest" from the Scottish champions, Hull City and Ipswich Town before Tuesday's deadline. However, a "serious" bid has not yet materialised and Pope could remain on Tyneside until January.
Jaissle said: "I had a talk with Nick. I really appreciate what he did in his career so far, and he knows exactly his situation right now. We need to deal with it in the best possible way. But I always appreciate the players and the human beings behind them, so this is the most important thing."
Van den Berg pursuit
Celtic also appear to have settled on PSV's Joel van den Berg as a replacement for Arne Engels, following his £22million move to West Ham earlier this summer. The 19-year-old was pulled from the 'Jong' sides clash with RKC Waalwijk on Friday amid rising interest from the Scottish Premiership champions - with the midfielder keen on a move to Glasgow.
The towering 6ft 2in playmaker made just six top team appearances for the Dutch champions last term - but Celtic appear to be willing to stump up the cash for the midfield talent. Brabants Dagblad report that the Hoops are "pushing ahead" with a move and are prepared to meet PSV's €4million (£3.4million) asking price.
