Celtic are keeping tabs on FC Krasnodar attacking midfielder Eduard Spertsyan, according to reports in Russia (via the Daily Record).

The 23-year-old, who has been capped 25 times by Armenia, is being monitored by Hoops scouts ahead of the summer transfer window.

Spertsyan has impressed in the Russian Premier League over the past few years, prompting speculation about a potential move to Europe.

It was revealed by respected journalist Fabrizio Romano in July last year that Ajax had tabled a bid totalling €10.5m (£9m) for the player.

However, the proposal was rejected by Krasnodar, who were reportedly holding out for a fee between €15m (£12.8m) and €18m (£15.4m). English Premier League side Newcastle have also been linked with Spertsyan.

Spertsyan has expressed an interest in moving clubs

Speaking about his future earlier this year, the Armenian international said he was interested in listening to offers from other teams:

“Yes, I want to play in Europe soon, but I know I’ve got to fight and work for it. I don’t want to leave here by running away or with a helicopter! I like being at Krasnodar, but I want to try to go to Europe while I have the chance, I don’t know what can happen there. I’m confident and I think I can achieve even bigger goals.”

Where would he fit into Celtic’s starting lineup?

The midfielder is usually deployed as a no.10. However, as the Hoops use a system with two no.8s, there is not a natural spot where Spertsyan would slot into the team.

Even so, if he can play in a slightly deeper role, it is possible he could signed as a replacement for Matt O’Riley. The Danish international has been heavily linked with a move south of the border and his asking price is said to be above £25m. If Celtic receive a sizeable fee for him, it would finance a move for Spertsyan.