UEFA have warned Celtic that it could take WEEKS for Ange Postecoglou to be given the all-clear to take over.
The Greek-Australian boss has emerged as the clear front-runner after talks with Eddie Howe broke down.
But, despite the insistence of a former A League chief, it appears Postecoglou does not have the UEFA Pro licence he'd need to take over.
That's not necessarily a bar to his appointment, with Rangers boss Steven Gerrard completing his badges after being appointed at Ibrox.
As a result Celtic have applied for an exemption for Postecoglou, citing his 25 years of experience in the game.
But a UEFA spokesperson told the Scottish Sun that it could take weeks for that to be approved.
Postecoglou holds an Australian Pro licence, the highest qualification in Asia, but that's viewed by the European authorities are equivalent to the A licence.
UEFA can grant a 'recognition of confidence' exemption which would allow the 55-year-old to work as manager while attaining his Pro licence, but that could take some time.
The governing body said: "Mr Postecoglou does not currently hold the UEFA Pro licence.
“A recognition of competence procedure has been initiated. The process could take several weeks. We don’t have any further information to provide at this stage.”
With a little over a month until the first pre-season friendly against Sheffield Wednesday that will be a cause of concern for Celtic.
In addition, current restrictions mean Postecoglou would have to quarantine after arriving from Japan.
As revealed by Record Sport , Jose Mourinho's former assistant Rui Faria could be in the frame if a deal cannot be completed.
Parkhead chiefs have held tentative talks with representatives of the Portuguese.
The 45-year-old is a free agent and is keen on the vacant Celtic job but Postecoglou remains the clear frontrunner.
