Celtic’s pursuit of Barcelona attacking midfielder Alex Collado is ‘one to keep an eye on’ over the coming weeks, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The talented 23-year-old is set to depart his boyhood club in search of regular first-team opportunities, and Parkhead has been sounded out as a potential destination.

What is the latest news involving Collado?

Spanish journalist Albert Roge has claimed that Celtic are one of four teams interested in prising Collado away from Camp Nou, with Olympiakos and two unnamed La Liga sides also in the running.

However, the Hoops could hold an advantage over their rivals in the pursuit of the former Spain Under-19 international’s signature as it’s claimed he is keen to play European football.

Olympiakos will also be able to offer Collado that, although they are currently involved in the play-off rounds for the Europa League while Celtic are assured of a place in the Champions League group stages.

It’s currently unclear how much Barcelona are set to demand for their academy graduate, who only has one year remaining on his current £15,000-per-week contract, but his price tag should be within Celtic’s reach.

What has Jones said about Collado?

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has over seen another busy transfer window at Parkhead, welcoming seven new additions to the club either on loan or on a permanent basis.

And Jones believes the Greek-Australian tactician would be ‘really pleased’ to add someone of Collado’s quality to his setup.

He told GiveMeSport: “I know that Ange would be really pleased to add another figure in his squad that is not only young, but also adds the right sort of qualities that he’s looking for, and the right depth. So, I think this is one to keep an eye on.”

Would Collado be a good signing?

Collado is a versatile attacking midfielder capable of playing on either flank but is most comfortable when playing centrally behind a single striker or a pair of strikers.

The creative talent spent the second half of last season on loan at Granada, registering three goal contributions in 17 top-flight appearances, although was unable to prevent their relegation from La Liga.

However, Collado put up some incredibly impressive underlying numbers, highlighting why he is so in-demand.

As per FBref, he has ranked in the 99^th percentile for pressures, tackles, interceptions and blocks amongst his positional peers over the last year, highlighting his incredible work ethic and ability to defend from the front.

Collado would be a significant coup for Celtic, and his signing would provide a boost to their hopes of retaining their Scottish Premiership crown.