Celtic are believed to be in the hunt for powerful striker Levi Garcia, with a potential transfer in mind – but they are set to face stern competition in the form of Ligue 1 outfit Lyon [via Homme Du Match].

Currently playing for AEK Athens, Garcia has been turning the heads of several reputable clubs in Europe over the past year. Among them are VFB Stuttgart, SS Lazio, LOSC Lille and Bordeaux.

Despite this, Lyon are the frontrunners to secure Garcia’s signature as things stand. Reportedly, they have submitted a bid for the player and are keen to conclude business as quickly as possible to avoid any sort of bidding war. The amount they have put forth to bring Garcia to the club is currently unknown.

As such, Celtic are now in a difficult position. They will have to act fast if they still wish to bring Garcia to the club – additionally, they will also need to offer him better terms than Lyon, as well as equalling their transfer bid..

Levi Garcia career summary

Born in Trinidad and Tobago in the community of Santa Flora, Garcia spent the first few years of his fledgling career playing in his native country. During this period, he played for T&TEC and Central FC.

In 2015, Garcia attended a trial for AZ Aklmaar – after impressing their recruitment staff, he was brought on board, but was unable to play until he turned 18 due to the European Union’s international labour laws. The following year, he would become AZ’s second-youngest goalscorer ever as he netted against NEC Nijmegen.

From there, spent time in Israel with Ironi Kiryat Shmona and Beitar Jerusalem – following this, he signed for AEK Athens in 2020, for whom he has scored 26 goals in 90 games.

Garcia has also won several caps for Trinidad and Tobago. So far, he has scored eight goals in 36 appearances for The Soca Warriors.