Celtic failed in their attempts to hijack Stoke’s move for midfielder Nick Powell, according to reports in England.

The Wigan star is available on a free transfer this summer, and a host of clubs were looking to sign the player.

Powell had been interesting the likes of Burnley, Brighton, Newcastle and a host of other English Championship teams but the 25-year-old has agreed a sizeable contract with the Potters instead.

It is believed Celtic made a significant effort in the last few days in order to persuade the ex-Manchester United midfielder to move to Parkhead, but their efforts were in vain.

Powell scored eight goals and laid on seven assists in 32 appearances for Wigan last campaign, but he opted against signing a new deal at the DW Stadium.

It seems Stoke’s financial clout may have swayed things in the Championship side’s favour, leaving Celtic to move on to other midfield targets.