Celtic will earn at least £17million if they qualify for next season's Champions League, according to financial expert Dr. Dan Plumley.

The Lowdown: Nearing a Champions League return

Ange Postecoglou's side are within touching distance of Scottish Premiership glory, leading Rangers by six points with three matches remaining this season.

A title win would see Celtic automatically go into next season's Champions League group stage, allowing them to test themselves against some of Europe's best teams.

Not only would it be an exciting challenge for Postecoglou and his players but it would also be a significant financial boost.

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The Latest: Expert drops £17m claim

Speaking to Football Insider, Plumley claimed that a minimum £17million windfall would come the Hoops' way if they get the job done in the league:

"If you base it on the prize money, each club gets just over £13m. You then have win bonuses, which are £2.4m for a win and just under £1m for a draw. So around £17m is what you’re looking at the very least.

"If you go straight into the group stage, you know you have that extra money to play with. Celtic do generate good revenue for where they are in that league. If you add another £17m on top, it becomes even more significant.

"In terms of future planning, you can target transfers accordingly because there is no jeopardy. You know you’re going to be there come September."

The Verdict: Exciting time for Hoops

There is a feeling that a special era is growing again at Parkhead, with Postecoglou doing a fantastic job since arriving and the title now tantalisingly close.

The financial gains from reaching the Champions League are huge and it would allow more money to be available for transfers, not to mention a higher calibre of player coming in to play amongst Europe's elite under a special manager.

Celtic must not rest on their laurels just yet, though, with work still to do in the league, starting with Saturday's visit of Hearts.

In other news, a journalist has dropped a key Celtic transfer claim. Read more here.