Celtic have been linked with a move for Sligo Rovers forward Johnny Kenny, as reported by The Irish Independent.

The Lowdown: Kenny profiled

Kenny is 18 years of age and is a right-footed centre-froward. The teenager, described as a ‘really important’ signing by Rovers boss Liam Buckley earlier this year, has scored six times in 23 appearances for his current employers.

His contract with Sligo expires at the end of next season, but it seems as if the Hoops are eyeing up another Irish addition after landing Liam Scales from Shamrock Rovers in the summer.

The Latest: Celtic’s interest

According to The Irish Independent, Celtic are keeping tabs on Kenny and plan to watch him in action on Friday evening against Drogheda United.

The Hoops have been monitoring Kenny throughout the year and could firm up their interest in January, should he continue to impress.

The Verdict: First January target

It appears as if Ange Postecoglou and Dominic McKay may have their first January target on their radar, and it’s good to see that the club are looking at the long term picture.

Just two of Celtic’s 12 summer signings were over the age of 26, with Celtic seemingly having a long-term plan in mind and the interest in Kenny shows that they are invested in this plan.

Young forward Joey Dawson was also brought in from Scunthorpe United, and should Kenny catch the eye over the next four months, he could join Dawson in the club’s young attacking ranks.

In other news: Celtic source shares transfer news different to Sky Sports claim; good news for McKay and Ange.