The race to become Scottish champions next year is already very much underway.

While Rangers have aspirations of kicking on next term and providing viable competition, the target at Parkhead is much more ambitious.

Coming away as Champions next term will mean that Celtic have made in 10 titles in a row - something that their rivals will certainly find difficult to stomach.

However if the Bhoys are to do that then they'll need to make sure that they make a success of the summer's transfer market.

Based on the latest reports, it seems that one move could be gathering pace.

According to Football Insider, a deal for Wigan Athletic's Joe Gelhardt looking to be moving closer.

Reports last week suggested that a move for the 18-year-old was on the cards with the Bhoys keen to bolster their attacking options.

However after the latest developments regarding the Latics going into administration, it seems that there could be room for a cut-price deal.

It's been suggested that the £5million-rated starlet could now be available for a significantly reduced sum.

However Celtic will still face stiff competition for his signature with Liverpool, Everton and Leicester City all said to be keen.

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GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

This is a deal that appears to be gathering pace all of the time.

There's no secret that Celtic are looking for a striker to join the club this summer, and Joe Gelhardt is one of those on their radar.

The 18-year-old is very highly-rated and looks set for a career at the highest level.

A move to Celtic would certainly give him the platform to make that step up, and so a move could be very appealing.

Given Wigan's financial situation, they're likely to be active in trying to offload a number of their players and so the Bhoys may be able to scoop up the starlet for a real bargain fee.