Noel Whelan has tipped Eddie Howe to make Josh King one of his first Celtic signings if he officially joins the Hoops.

The 43-year-old has verbally agreed to replace Neil Lennon at Parkhead following face-to-face talks with Dermot Desmond earlier this week.

The Hoops look set to be Howe’s third club of his managerial career, and Whelan believes a reunion with King in Glasgow could be on the cards.

Everton not expected to make King's deal long-term

King, 29, was signed by Howe on the south coast back in 2015 on a free transfer from Blackburn Rovers. The Norwegian went on to score 50 goals in 170 appearances under Howe.

The striker is now with Everton on a short-term deal, however, the Toffees aren’t expected to extend that in the summer, meaning he could be a free agent and thus an impeccably cheap deal for such a talented player, even if he demands big wages.

Whelan, talking to Football Insider about King, said:

“He would be fantastic for the Scottish game and Celtic. Maybe he’ll delve into the market for that one, he knows what’s happening in the summertime. The two of them know each other very well.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if he delves into the market and takes people that he knows and trusts.

“That’s what managers generally do, using their own contacts and the relationships they have with players. That would only be a positive for Celtic.”

Transfer Tavern take

King, who picks up £45,000-a-week on Merseyside, could prove to be an excellent signing.

He’s capable of playing anywhere across the front line, has over 160 Premier League appearances under his belt and more than 50 appearances for his national side.

Still only 29 years of age, he could thrive under Howe at Parkhead, should a move materialise.

In other news: Former Hoops striker could join Howe at Celtic Park, find out more here.