Celtic enjoy a ‘great relationship’ with Manchester City and could look to sign some of their young stars this summer, according to Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph.

The Hoops will be hoping to strengthen their side after securing Champions League football next term and could turn to the reigning Premier League champions in order to do so.

What is the latest news involving Celtic?

There are a handful of close ties between the two clubs in their backroom staff but none more so than Mark Lawwell.

Back in May, the 32-year-old Scotsman was appointed as Celtic’s Head of First Team Scouting and Recruitment, bringing an end to his 10-year association with City.  

Lawwell was formerly the head of the City Football Group’s scouting and recruitment for a decade and is the son of Peter Lawwell, who was Celtic’s chief executive for 18 years from 2003.

Mark is very well-respected within the industry and previously worked closely with Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou on scouting and recruitment throughout his time in charge of Yokohama F Marinos.  

What has Joseph said?

Players such as Olivier Ntcham, Patrick Roberts and Jeremie Frimpong have all arrived at Parkhead from City in recent years, and Joseph believes that a fruitful partnership could continue.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “Celtic have a great relationship with them.

Barca agree De Jong transfer!? Hear more on The Football Terrace...

“Fergal Harkin is leaving to become director of football at Standard Liege, so that's one close contact leaving, but Mark Lawwell, who was working at the City Group is now Celtic’s Head of Recruitment; he'll know the players.

“Gary Caldwell is also there, who was working as alongside Harkin, so there's a lot of close relationships. And if City have some young emerging talent, you bet Celtic will be all over that.”

Who could Celtic sign?

A recent report from Sky Sports revealed that the Glasgow giants are keeping close tabs on centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

The 20-year-old spent the first half of last season on loan with Belgian outfit Anderlecht before switching to Stoke City in January, making 42 appearances in all competitions.

In a previous interview with GMS, Joseph disclosed how Celtic were ‘closely monitoring’ the England Under-21 international ahead of a potential move.

Despite the acquisition of Cameron Carter-Vickers on a permanent basis, Postecoglou is believed to be looking for further reinforcements along his backline, and Harwood-Bellis could be at the top of his wish list.