New Celtic signing Aaron Mooy was wanted by Rangers before he was snapped up by the Hoops, according to former Scotland manager Alex McLeish.

The Lowdown: Celtic sign Mooy

Ange Postecoglou signed his compatriot earlier in the week, with the midfielder joining as a free agent after his time at Shanghai Port came to an end.

Mooy has arrived at Celtic on a two-year deal, looking to help make up for the loss of Tom Rogic, who left Parkhead this summer after nine years there.

The 31-year-old has won 53 caps for Australia, also enjoying past spells in England with Huddersfield Town and Brighton.

The Latest: McLeish drops big claim

Speaking to Football Insider, Sky Sports pundit McLeish dropped a huge claim regarding Mooy, saying that Rangers showed an interest in signing him before he joined Celtic:

"In my opinion, I think he’s a really good signing. I really liked Aaron Mooy at Brighton, I really thought he was a lovely footballer, he had such a nice touch, penetrative passing and running.

"Ok, the Scottish league is not as strong as the English league and I know he went back to China and played there for a wee while. I think he will make an impact.

"I heard whispers that Rangers were linked with him as well and I thought he would be good signing for Rangers. But Celtic have made him one of their priorities so time will tell if he emerges. I’m telling you, he’s a really good player.

"Postecoglou did it last year, he got the Japanese players, the Greek because he used his own knowledge with the help of the analysts. You can see all day long that is his choice."

The Verdict: Even better for Hoops

McLeish's comments are sure to delight Hoops supporters, with any opportunity to get one over on their bitter rivals something that is worth shouting about.

Mooy is an impressive footballer, too, which makes the claim even better, with Australia manager Graham Arnold describing him as 'amazing', following their qualification for the 2022 World Cup.

He has the quality and experience to become a new favourite in the middle of the park at Celtic, keeping possession and chipping in with goals, having scored nine times in the Premier League in the past.