Celtic midfielder Olivier Ntcham’s “preference” is to return to France if he leaves Parkhead before the transfer window closes, according to Sky Sports.

The news channel revealed yesterday that Newcastle have registered an interest in signing the 24-year-old on loan, but Marseille have now also made it known they would like to sign the player.

Ntcham was not even in the squad for the 2-1 defeat to St Mirren yesterday and he hasn’t made an appearance since the 2-0 win over Ross County last month suggesting his future lies away from Celtic Park.

Lyon and Southampton have also had a long-standing interest in the former France Under 21 international but it appears that either Marseille and Newcastle are the likeliest destinations currently.

It remains to be seen whether Ntcham will be allowed to leave on a temporary basis but the Hoops are currently thought to be holding out for a permanent departure ahead of the deadline tomorrow.