Celtic are interested in a swoop for Leeds United defender Barry Douglas, according to the Lancashire Telegraph.

The Lowdown: Douglas has enjoyed a solid season

Spending the season on loan at Blackburn Rovers, Douglas has enjoyed a solid campaign in the English Championship, making 30 appearances and recording two assists [Transfermarkt].

He also demonstrated considerable defensive prowess, making an average of 2.3 successful tackles per game for Rovers [WhoScored]. That was a better average than every single player who featured for Celtic in 2020/21, the rarely-seen Anthony Ralston the only Hoops man who averaged two per game [WhoScored].

Interestingly, the Scotland international confirmed on Instagram that he would not sign a permanent deal at Ewood Park following his loan stint [The Boot Room].

Scheduled to return to Leeds United imminently, his future at the club remains wholly uncertain. Contractually, Douglas will become a free agent at the end of this month when his Elland Road deal expires [67 Hail Hail].

Could this pave the way for Celtic to make an approach?

The Latest: Celtic re-ignite their Douglas pursuit

Presently, reports state that Celtic hold an interest in taking the former Dundee United left-back north of the border [Lancashire Telegraph]. In a dramatic turn of events, the Hoops' Glasgow rivals Rangers are also said to be monitoring his situation [Lancashire Telegraph].

Of course, Douglas is a familiar name to Celtic fans. Shortlisted by the club last year following Boli Bolingoli’s departure [Sky Sports], the Bhoys appear to have reignited their interested in the experienced defender .

The Verdict: Douglas would be a solid addition

Douglas would likely represent a solid addition to the Hoops rearguard if he returns to Scotland. In need of reliable players to inspire a Premiership title charge, the man once dubbed an "an impeccable professional" by Marcelo Bielsa [Leeds United] could certainly fulfil an important function for Celtic .

However, the Hoops must act swiftly in order to secure the left-back’s services. If Celtic have serious aspirations of domestic glory next season, they cannot afford to lose documented targets to their fiercest competitors. The Parkhead club should be pulling out all the stops to finalise the deal.

In other news, Celtic are interested in this 17-goal striker as they plot for 2021/22.