Reliable reporter Alan Nixon has suggested that Southampton will be keeping a close eye on Celtic midfielder Ryan Christie in the coming weeks.

The Lowdown: Christie a man in demand

Celtic appear to be in a tricky situation with Christie, as his contract actually expires in January 2022.

That means he’ll be able to pen a pre-contract agreement with sides outside of Scotland this summer, ahead of a potential free transfer in the new year.

Both Burnley and Norwich have been linked with a move for the 26-year-old recently, and it seems as if Southampton have become the latest side to show an interest in the Scotland international.

The Latest: Nixon’s Christie claim

According to Nixon, the Saints ‘will watch Celtic’s Ryan Christie at Euros’ – an interesting seven-word claim for the Hoops' expected rebuild.

Christie was included in Steve Clarke’s squad for the major competition, alongside five other Hoops players.

Nixon took to Twitter on Sunday morning to share the news, saying:

“Southampton. Will watch Celtic’s Ryan Christie at Euros. Contract running down. May get a chance to play in preferred role too.”

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The Verdict: Euros key for Celtic's financial hopes?

Back in February, a Celtic source informed Football Insider that the Hoops were looking to tie Christie down to a new deal ahead of the summer window.

However, with no deal yet in place, Celtic may have to bite the bullet and look to sell at a cut price, should interested parties be keen on one, to ensure they at least receive something for the attacking midfielder.

He’s currently valued at £6.3m and is on £12,000-a-week at Parkhead, so if the club can receive an offer around £4-6m, they may be silly not to accept given his contract situation.

Hopefully, Christie can impress with his country this summer over the coming weeks, which could end up being key for Celtic earning as much as possible in a permanent deal ahead of the 2021/22 season.

In other news: Source shares further Celtic managerial twist; Dermot Desmond urged to consider Ange Postecoglou alternative, find out more here