Celtic may have to see off English Premier League outfit Newcastle if they want to sign Tottenham defender Cameron Carter-Vickers before the transfer window closes, according to reports in England.

The Hoops are said to be interested in securing a loan deal for the USA international but Spurs are looking to offload the player on a permanent basis.

Newcastle are reportedly holding talks with the North London side about Carter-Vickers, although it is not clear at this stage whether they are pursuing the 23-year-old on loan as well.

Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou currently has just three recognised centre-backs in his first-team squad. Carl Starfelt and Stephen Welsh are, however, the only ones fit, with Christopher Jullien still sidelined with a knee injury.

You would think, therefore, that the Scottish club would be pursuing other targets if they can’t get Carter-Vickers, but it seems the American is the only centre-half being targeted.