Sheffield United manager Slavisa Jokanovic says he is not aware of any interest from Celtic in right-back George Baldock.

The Hoops have been named as a potential suitor in the media over the past week and, while Jokanovic says he has read the stories, he is hoping there is no truth to the transfer rumour:

“I am reading the newspaper like all the people, but this news is still not coming to me. You never know in this world what can happen, but this gossip in the newspaper I hope is not true.”

Even if Celtic do firm up their interest in Baldock, though, it will be a challenge to clinch a move for the 28-year-old. It is believed that the Blades are holding out for a fee in excess of £8m for the defender.

While manager Ange Postecoglou is desperate to strengthen his options in defence, with Anthony Ralston currently his only natural right-back, there are cheaper options out on the market.

A move for Sacha Boey has been ruled out but a deal for his Rennes teammate, Brandon Soppy, could still be in the offing, with reports suggesting he could be available for around £4.3m. An alternative could well be Royal Antwerp’s Aurelio Buta.