Former Scotland defender Alan Hutton has been reacting to the transfer speculation surrounding Celtic striker Giorgios Giakoumakis. 

The lowdown: Premier League interest

Earlier this week, reputable transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claimed that a number of clubs are 'interested' in Giakoumakis, including Premier League outfits.

However, the Italian journalist stated that the 27-year-old Greece international is 'untouchable' at Celtic Park having joined the Hoops last summer from VVV-Venlo.

Upon hearing about the reported admiration, one onlooker has suggested that the Scottish champions could be willing to sanction a sale should the price be too good to turn down...

The latest: 'Wait and see'

Speaking to Football Insider, BBC Radio 5 Live pundit Hutton claimed that the Bhoys' hierarchy would listen to offers for the 11-cap ace.

He said: “Of course (they would sell). Look at the likes of [Odsonne] Edouard, he went for £14million. If we’re talking about a big sum of money of course Rangers or Celtic, doesn’t matter who the player is, will always want to bring in a large fee.

“I think we’ll have to wait and see what kind of money we’re talking about. If it’s a silly bid from a team that’s trying to fight relegation, why would you leave? Celtic, who have got Champions League football who are going for the league, they’re fighting on all fronts.

“Does he start week in week out? No but that’s because they’re so strong at this moment in time. Surely you want to be part of that. I think it all depends on what club and how much we’re talking.”

The verdict: No deal

As Ange Postecoglou prepares his charges to embark on a UEFA Champions League group stage campaign to accompany domestic commitments, keeping players such as Giakoumakis in situ will be imperative.

Albeit the Celtic squad is blessed with attacking options and with the possibility of further reinforcements in the shape of Sead Haksabanovic and Ross Barkley to come, the powerful Greek frontman remains an important part of the plans having featured in all three Scottish Premiership games so far.

Should offers be forthcoming, the Glasgow giants would be expecting to field bids well in excess of his £3.6million market value, particularly given the four remaining years left on a contract at Parkhead.