Reliable reporter Alan Nixon provided his thoughts on Celtic’s pursuit of Manchester City man Fergal Harkin.

The Hoops were thought to be closing in on Harkin, a ‘massive’ Celtic fan, last week in a newly created director of football role.

Extensive talks took place between the Irishman and Celtic, with the club ready to defy Eddie Howe by appointing the 44-year-old.

However, a move is yet to be announced, which has led to questions being asked regarding the club’s off-field plans.

Nixon was quizzed by a Celtic supporter if the Hoops were any closer to appointing a new DoF or manager late on Thursday evening.

The Sun writer replied, suspecting a deal for Harkin is more advanced.

“Suspect director of football thing more advanced... but if I got a fiver for every time I’ve been told Harkin is coming I could pay for wee Eddie.”

Transfer Tavern take

It’s been over a week since sources told Football Insider Celtic were closing in on their man.

A reason for the delay could well be due to Dominic McKay. He arrived at Parkhead on Monday to help with a smooth transition as CEO, so we feel he could be getting his bearings before looking to finalise a deal for Harkin.

Perhaps the new Hoops chief has other ideas entirely about who the club should target to run things alongside a new manager however, which would of course explain the delay in getting Harkin through the door.

Nixon suspects it is more advanced, though, which, to us, can only be good news going forward.

In other news: Celtic's feelings on British Super League shared in five words, find out more here.