Chelsea have joined Liverpool in the race to sign Celtic youngster Ben Doak, according to reliable reporter Kieran Devlin.

The Lowdown: Place on the bench

The versatile 16-year-old is yet to pen professional terms at Parkhead and was recently linked with a move to Anfield.

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The Reds are thought to be looking at a compensation deal for the teenager, who made the bench against St Johnstone prior to the winter break.

He was back involved in the matchday squad on Wednesday night for Celtic’s 2-1 win over Hearts and is now catching the eye of Chelsea.

The Latest: Devlin’s claim

Devlin ran a Q&A on The Athletic for Celtic’s match against Hearts last night.

One fan wanted to know more about Doak after seeing him named on the bench, with another supporter believing he was included ‘because Liverpool are trying to sign him so a place on the bench maybe makes him commit to the club’.

Devlin responded to that comment, revealing that Chelsea are also ‘in for’ Doak as he said: “It's this yes, Chelsea in for him too. Bit of a political move.”

The Verdict: Fingers crossed

As Devlin claims, Ange Postecoglou may well be including Doak in the matchday squad in a bid to tempt him to sign a long-term deal with the club.

Should that be the case, the Hoops hierarchy will be hoping it works, as the 16-year-old is clearly a player held in high regard, with officials from both Stamford Bridge and Anfield keen on his services.

The next few months could be crucial with regards to Doak’s future, but featuring regularly in Postecoglou’s matchday squads might just tip the balance in Celtic’s favour.

In other news: 'Ambitious' Celtic ace may now seal late exit to join relegation-threatened side.