Kristoffer Ajer will likely prove to be a 'very good signing' for Newcastle United but Steve Bruce should question the defender's 'character'.
That's the view of pundit Noel Whelan, who has has cast doubt over the Celtic centre-back's temperament ahead of a likely exit this summer.
Ajer confirmed in a recent interview with Norwegian outlet VG that "something will happen this summer" regarding his future.
The 23-year-old has just 12 months remaining on his contract in Glasgow, and the deposed Scottish champions are expected to cash in rather than risk losing the defender on a free transfer next summer.
Newcastle have been strongly linked with a move for Ajer, with a bargain fee of up to £8m mentioned in recent reports.
However, the Magpies will likely face fierce competition for the defender's signature with Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen also credited with an interest.
Bruce is in the market for a centre-back this summer, with Arsenal prospect William Saliba among those also being monitored.
Former Coventry City and Leeds United striker Whelan is confident Ajer would prove to be a success at St James' Park.
However, the pundit has questioned whether the Norwegian international will 'fight' to impress Bruce or simply 'jump ship' if things become difficult.
Whelan told Football Insider : "He will probably end up being a very good signing for Newcastle.
“The difficult one is why could he not be that for Celtic?
"As a manager, you look at that and you’re questioning his character straight away.
“Is he going to fight or sink? Is he going to jump ship? He’s done it once.
“What’s to say if things don’t go right at Newcastle he won’t do the same thing?”
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