Celtic have 'stepped up' talks with reported target Cameron Carter-Vickers of Tottenham Hotspur, as their search for defensive reinforcements rolls on [Daily Record].

The Lowdown: Celtic start off 2021/22 in disappointing fashion

Progressing into the new campaign, new Hoops manager Ange Postecoglou will be agitating to get new signings in the door following an opening day defeat to Heart of Midlothian [BBC].

Having made some inroads from a recruitment perspective, Celtic have managed to acquire additions Carl Starfelt, Kyogo Furuhashi, Liel Abada, Osaze Urhoghide and Liam Shaw [Transfermarkt].

They are now closing in on a sixth new face according to recent developments.

The Latest: Talks continue for Carter-Vickers; loan deal not an option

Celtic have stepped up talks with 23-year-old Carter-Vickers as they look to add defensive cover moving further into 2021/22 [Daily Record].

Despite being keen to explore the option of bringing the United States international in on loan, this scenario has now been quashed as they player wishes to leave north London for good.

Spurs are said to have an asking price of around £5 million for his services, which could cause issue with Anderlecht and Club Brugge also linked with a swoop.

The Verdict: Carter-Vickers would be an astute signing for Celtic

In desperate need of depth at the back, Carter-Vickers would prove to be an astute signing who could retain significant sell-on value in the long-term.

In 2020/21, Southend-born Carter-Vickers featured 26 times on loan at Bournemouth, registering two goal contributions, one goal and one assist [Transfermarkt], as the Cherries made the Championship play-offs.

Furthermore, he impressed with his awareness to danger throughout the year, recording an average of 3.6 clearances per game [WhoScored].

Once labelled as ‘very good’ by former coach Jonathan Woodgate, Celtic should look to secure his signature as a matter of priority [Bournemouth Echo] - he is young enough to sell on for profit in the future but experienced enough to improve the first XI immediately, boasting eight USA caps already.

In other news, an England international is willing to take a pay cut to join the Hoops.