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Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Sergio Quintero to Celtic? Ecuadorian wonderkid reveals talks with Neil Lennon's Hoops

Ecuadorian wonderkid Sergio Quintero has revealed he's in talks with Celtic.

And the 20-year-old hopes to complete his move to Scotland this week as the Hoops search for a replacement for Olivier Ntcham.

The midfielder helped his country book a surprise semi-final spot at the Under 20s World Cup this summer in Poland.

Celtic were linked with a move for the Quintero, who plays for homeland club Imbabura SC, along with other clubs in Europe.

Quintero has revealed his switch to Glasgow is now at an advanced stage, with developments expected this week.

He said: "I'm thinking about a move to European football. I'm trying to be calm about it and take it easy.

"The representatives of Celtic have been in talks for some time with the president of Imbabura.

"An agreement has to be reached this week if the transfer is to go through.

"But if the deal doesn't go through I am relaxed because I have offers from other clubs in Europe and Ecuador. It's important to make the best decision for me.

"It would be very difficult to adapt to life in a country like Scotland, but with time I think I would be able to settle in.

"I've already done English lessons - not a lot, but I have learned enough."

In an interview with a Quito publication, Quintero spoke about how his relaxed style has turned him into a top prospect.

He said: "I always want to be a humble person. We are the youth champions of South America and we are the third best team in the world, but I am still the same man. I play with humility.

"I look at my football as a treat. I always want to enjoy myself.

"I suppose my life changed after those tournaments, but I know I have to keep working hard if I want a good career in football."

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