Celtic are closing in on naming Manchester City man Fergal Harkin as their new director of football.

That’s according to an exclusive report from Football Insider, who shared the strong links between the two clubs on Friday morning, backing up their claim that a deal is '90% done' to attain a new Hoops DoF.

Harkin a Celtic fan

A Celtic source revealed that Harkin played a key role in helping Peter Lawwell’s son, Mark, join the City Football Group eight years ago.

Harkin, who is thought to be a “massive Celtic fan”, also recommended Ronny Deila to the Hoops back in 2014.

The latest report claims that Harkin’s pending arrival may be just the start of a 'stampede of arrivals' at Parkhead from the Etihad.

Transfer Tavern take

With Harkin expected to fill the newly-created DoF role, attention could soon turn to the vacant managerial position.

Roy Keane is reportedly set to be offered the job, which, should he accept, could see two Irishmen working closely together in Keane and Harkin.

This summer will be crucial in the club’s bid to win back the Scottish Premiership from rivals Rangers next season.

Plenty of outgoings and incomings on the pitch could well materialise ahead of the 2021/22 campaign, and it looks as if Harkin will be central to plenty of those decisions.

In other news: Keane's possible No.2 revealed as news emerges, find out more here.