Title-chasing Celtic have a battle on their hands if they want to land Zinedine Ferhat as Ligue 1 big-hitters Lille have reportedly joined the race.
Algerian playmaker Ferhat, previously linked with rivals Rangers, emerged as a rumoured target last week.
The 28-year-old appears desperate to leave Ligue 2 side Nimes after their relegation from the top flight last season and January represents their last chance to cash in, with his deal up in the summer.
Various top-flight sides in France are keen although Celtic were boosted by reports that suggested Saint-Etienne have withdrawn their interest.
But now RMC Sport claim Lille see him as one of two potential replacements for Jonathan Ikone, with Brest's Romain Favre the other they are considering.
There's better news from a Celtic perspective where Cameron Carter-Vickers is concerned as noises coming out of the club suggest talks are progressing well over a permanent deal.
The American has hit the ground running since joining on loan from Tottenham and has missed just two games for the Hoops.
The Parkhead side hold an option to buy of around £6m and want to make the deal permanent.
It's not quite that straightforward, with Sky Sports reporting Celtic and Spurs are locked in talks over payment structure.
But it's understood talks are progressing well and an agreement between the clubs before the end of the season seems likely.
With three new faces in the door and at least one more incoming in the shape of Irish striker Johnny Kenny, Celtic's squad is beginning to look bloated and there should be a few outgoings before the close of play.
Yosuke Ideguchi and Reo Hatate mean depth in midfield is no longer a problem and that could spell the end for Ismaila Soro.
The Ivorian is now well down the pecking order and it has been reported New York Red Bulls are keen to offer him a way out.
Soro's deal runs until 2024 though so any permanent move would see Celtic pocket a modest fee for the 23-year-old.
