Celtic will be fearful of Premier League clubs looking to hijack their attempts to tie Tottenham Hotspur defender Cameron Carter-Vickers down to a permanent Parkhead switch, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.
Carter-Vickers joined the Hoops on a season-long loan from the north Londoners on deadline day of last summer's transfer window and he has gone on to make an impact in Glasgow.
What's the latest news involving Carter-Vickers?
Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has made no secret of his intentions to negotiate a deal which will see Carter-Vickers remain at Parkhead beyond the end of his loan agreement, with him admitting he hopes qualifying for the Champions League will tempt the centre-half to remain north of the border.
The Hoops already know Spurs are seeking a fee of £10million in order to activate an option written into the deal which originally took Carter-Vickers north of the border.
But they are set to face competition for the United States international's signature as West Ham United have reportedly developed an interest.
According to American media outlet SBI Soccer, the Hammers are not the only Premier League side looking to beat Celtic to the punch.
The report suggests Leicester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers are also tracking Carter-Vickers, while Watford and Championship outfit Bournemouth have already been in contact with Tottenham ahead of potentially tabling a bid.
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What has Pete O'Rourke said about Carter-Vickers?
O'Rourke believes Celtic will be fearing that they may be left frustrated in their bid to seal Carter-Vickers' permanent transfer to Parkhead.
The journalist understands the Hoops are not in a financial position where they are able to usurp any amount a Premier League side could offer Tottenham and the centre-half.
As a result, he reckons Postecoglou may have to start looking at alternative targets in case Celtic are unable to strike a deal.
O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "They will be worried because if it comes down to finances and money, Celtic aren't able to compete with these Premier League clubs."
Why do Celtic want to sign Carter-Vickers permanently?
Postecoglou was appointed as Celtic's manager last season, with him having the target of guiding the Glasgow giants to the Scottish Premiership title.
The Bhoys went into the international break sitting three points clear of arch-rivals Rangers at the top of the standings and Carter-Vickers has played a key role in his loan club moving into pole position.
Carter-Vickers has only missed 90 minutes of top flight action since heading to Celtic and has even chipped in with four goal contributions despite being in the heart of Postecoglou's backline.
All in all, the 24-year-old has chalked up 37 appearances for the Hoops, highlighting Postecoglou loves the popular defender at Parkhead.