Celtic are prepared to pay Brighton defender Shane Duffy’s £5m asking price, according to the Sunday Post. However, it is thought that the Hoops would like to pay the money in four yearly instalments of £1.25m.

The Scottish champions are hopeful that this arrangement will be accepted by the Seagulls as they had a similar agreement with Rangers when the Old Firm rivals snapped up Jamie Murphy two years ago.

Even if Brighton do accept Celtic’s offer for Duffy, though, there is still a major hurdle to overcome in terms of the Republic of Ireland international’s wages. The 28-year-old is currently earning £40,000 a week and he would need to accept a pay cut in order for the transfer to go ahead.

The centre-back’s affiliation with the club should help negotiations while the Hoops are also looking at using performance-related bonuses to make up the shortfall.

There are still other clubs interested in Duffy, though, with both West Ham and West Brom reportedly keen, but the Scottish club remain firm favourites to capture his signature.