Celtic have opened talks with Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke ahead of a cut-price move to Parkhead.

The Lowdown: Wyke keen on Parkhead move

Wyke is out of contract at the Stadium of Light at the end of the month, and therefore, could move to Celtic Park for nothing.

He’s scored 41 goals for Sunderland in 113 appearances, 30 of which came last season.

Reports have recently suggested he is ‘very keen’ to make the move north and join Ange Postecoglou’s side, and it appears as if a potential deal has taken another step forward.

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The Latest: Talks underway

Football Insider shared a story on Wednesday, claiming the Hoops were set for talks with the Black Cats striker this week.

They then shared a piece on Thursday, where Alex McLeish was giving his thoughts on a potential move.

In that story, Football Insider, informed by a 'recruitment source', added that talks are now officially underway between the two parties.

Celtic are set to offer the forward, who Kevin Campbell called ‘exceptional in the air’, a long-term contract.

The Verdict: A smart signing?

With no transfer fee required and Wyke on £6,400-a-week at Sunderland, this could be a shrewd piece of business by the Hoops.

Wyke has just recorded his best season in front of goal, so you’d expect he’d be full of confidence heading into the new campaign.

Leigh Griffiths’ Celtic future is up in the air, and should Postecoglou decide against offering him a new deal, Wyke could well take his place.

All directions seemingly lead to Parkhead at this moment in time for Wyke, but as we know, nothing is done until the player signs on the dotted line, so fans will have to wait a little while longer for any confirmed news.

In other news: Hoops keen on international winger, find out more here.