Celtic are looking to snap up Birmingham City defender Mitch Roberts ahead of Manchester City, according to reports in the Scottish media.

The 18-year-old has been with the Midlands club for eight years, coming through the academy at the Championship club. He only signed a professional deal back in June, but it is believed the Blues would be open to a sale if a team meets their asking price.

Celtic are believed to be confident of landing Roberts before the transfer deadline on Monday, and with City unable to sign any players until January, it means the Scottish champions do have the advantage.

The Hoops will be hoping that the greater prospect of first-team football at Celtic Park will also prove to be attractive to the teenager.

Roberts has yet to play a senior game but both Celtic and City have been impressed by his performances in Birmingham’s development squad over the past year.