Celtic qualifying for the Champions League could hold the key to whether or not they are able to sign Cameron Carter-Vickers this summer.
The Lowdown: Carter-Vickers move wanted
The future of the 24-year-old has been a major talking point of late, with the Hoops hopeful that they can make his temporary move permanent this summer.
There is interest from other clubs, however, some of which are in the Premier League, which of course has the potential to turn Carter-Vickers' head.
The American, called 'outstanding' by teammate Greg Taylor, has enjoyed a superb season on loan at Parkhead, scoring four goals in 28 Scottish Premiership appearances and producing some dominant defensive performances, ranking as the club's fifth-most important player in Premiership games, per Whoscored.
The Latest: CL qualification key
Speaking to Give Me Sport, journalist Pete O'Rourke claimed playing in the Champions League could be a key reason for Carter-Vickers wanting to stay on at Celtic:
"I think Nicholson will be thinking, ‘come here for regular first team football, you know the club and there is a chance to play in the Champions League next season, which would be attractive to all players’.
"I think if he went to Celtic, maybe Celtic will be thinking we can keep him here for a couple of years at least and if he continues to shine and grow then, after that, maybe a move back down to the Premier League might be in the offing for Carter-Vickers.
"He is still quite young and been out on loan a few times from Spurs, so finding a permanent home where he’s happy, when seemingly it has worked out for him at Celtic so far this season, might be his best thing to do."
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The Verdict: Tough to predict
In truth, it is difficult to predict what Carter-Vickers' decision will be, but there is no doubt that the chance to play in the Champions League would appeal hugely.
It is arguably the pinnacle of club football, and while wanting to play in the Premier League may also appeal to the defender, those clubs interested will not be in the Champions League next season.
As O'Rourke alludes to, signing for Celtic for a few years and then potentially moving elsewhere eventually feels like the best solution for all concerned, banking the Hoops a hefty profit down the line after getting some solid years out of the up and coming star.
In other news, former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has been left fuming. Read more here.