Former Celtic player Davie Provan has questioned defender Kristoffer Ajer’s ability following the news that the Norwegian international wants to leave the club in the summer.

The centre-back’s agent Tore Pedersen says the 21-year-old won’t be signing a new contract and will be looking to depart Celtic Park. Responding to another ex-Celtic star Harald Brattback’s thoughts on the matter, Provan said:

“Former Hoops striker Harald Brattbakk said: ‘The money is a big issue. I heard Virgil van Dijk doubled his salary going to Southampton and then at least doubled it again moving to Liverpool.’ Harald pal, Ajer will never be in the same ballpark as van Dijk.”

Ajer has over two years left on his contract and manager Neil Lennon has already said that the Norwegian won’t be allowed to leave the club unless they choose to sell up.

AC Milan are believed to be the team who are keenest to recruit the centre-half but the Hoops are likely to slap a hefty price tag on the player’s head.

Negotiations over a new contract do appear to have stalled, but it remains to be seen whether any club will firm up their interest and make a formal offer for Ajer.