Celtic may have to see off a challenge from Benfica if they want to secure the services of Velez Sarsfield left-back Francisco Ortega, according to reports in Portugal.

It is believed that Benfica’s sporting director Rui Pedro Braz has travelled to Argentina as the Portuguese side line up potential offers for players in the country.

Braz is said to have had a meeting with Uriel Perez, who reportedly represents Ortega, and it appears that Benfica are pressing ahead with a move for the defender, who may only cost €4m (£3.4m).

Whether Celtic will look to step up their interest, we shall have to wait and see. The Hoops are still thought to be considering a number of possible options as they look to provide competition for Greg Taylor on the left-hand side of defence.

Despite manager Ange Postecoglou denying any knowledge of the player, reports have claimed that he has received scouting reports on Hammarby’s Mohanad Jeahze, in addition to Ortega, so a decision will need to be made soon on who is the priority target.