Lazio are reportedly on the verge of sealing a deal for in-demand Celtic target Piero Hincapie.
The teenage star added to his soaring reputation after a stunning display in Ecuador’s 1-1 draw against Brazil in the Copa America which helped them secure a quarter final place.
Hincapie is currently with Argentinian top flight club Atletico Talleres but he is being chased by a host of top clubs in Europe.
Celtic are among a string of admirers but face stiff competition to secure the 19-year-old’s signature, who can play as a left back but is predominantly a centre half.
Talleres President Andres Fassi revealed he is in advanced talks with an Italian club over the player’s departure but didn’t name the side.
However, reports in Argentina now state that Lazio are close to securing his signature and ending Celtic’s hopes.
Maurizio Sarri has recently taken over at the Roman club, replacing Simone Inzaghi after he joined Inter Milan.
Ange Postecolgou admitted Celtic urgently need to make signings with a huge Champions League qualifier against Midtjylland coming up next month.
The Australian vowed to cast his net wide in an attempt to find players who can improve the squad and Hincapie fell into that category.
He said: “There is some great talent in Asia, there is some fantastic talent in South America” but Hincapie could be out of his reach.
