Celtic could 'jump at the chance' to sign Zinedine Ferhat from Ligue 2 outfit Nimes Olympique in the January transfer window. 

That's according to French publication Foot Mercato.

The lowdown

The 28-year-old, who can play as a right winger and an attacking midfielder, is out of contract in June. He has been limited to just seven Ligue 2 appearances for Nimes this term after their relegation in 2020/21.

The Algerian is valued at £4.05m by Transfermarkt, but his contract situation could put Nimes in a weak negotiating position. Celtic could also try and strike an agreement whereby Ferhat joins as a free agent in the summer.

The latest

The report from Foot Mercato states that Ferhat is poised to leave Nimes this month, so all that remains is 'to know the future destination of the player'.

Ferhat has been 'courted' by Montpellier and 'more recently' Saint-Etienne, but he also has admirers abroad. Celtic are among them, with the Hoops considering a swoop because of the player's 'profile and low cost'.

The verdict

Based on his exploits in the French top flight last season, Ferhat would be an outstanding signing for Celtic, especially if it's a cut-price deal or a free transfer.

He scored six goals and provided 10 assists for the team who finished 19th in the league - only Memphis Depay, PSG's Angel Di Maria and Lille's Jonathan Bamba set up more goals. It was perhaps a surprise that, off the back of those exploits, he didn't get a move last summer.

What's more, he's a player who could captivate the Parkhead faithful because he bases his playing style on Ronaldinho, promising to 'turn on the style'.

In other news, Celtic have opened talks over a deal for this defender