Sources: Celtic plot move to sign long-term target who's dazzled for Hearts

Marc Leonard has emerged as a leading target for Celtic ahead of the summer transfer window as he prepares to leave Hearts, sources have told Football Insider.

The 24-year-old has spent the second half of the season on loan with the Jambos from Birmingham City, and could be snapped up after he returns to the English club.

His performances in Scotland have attracted interest from Celtic, who have been keeping a close eye on his performances since before his move to Hearts.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Celtic are interested in signing Leonard after his loan spell at Tynecastle expires.

The Hoops are determined to strengthen their midfield options in the summer, and have identified him as a key target as Celtic look to accelerate their transfer plans.

Could Celtic agree a deal to sign Marc Leonard?

Football Insider reported on 6 May that Leonard could be a terrific signing for Celtic if they can reach an agreement after his impressive displays at Hearts.

While they are aware there will be stiff competition for his signature come the end of the season, they are prepared to fight off rivals in their bid to agree terms.

Celtic are prioritising midfield additions this summer as the position has emerged as an area of concern, and there is a belief that Leonard could be the perfect fit.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “He’s a player that’s impressed a great deal up in Scotland this season, he’s been instrumental for Hearts.

“He’s been right up there as one of their most important players in the second half of the season, and he’s a player Celtic will be fully aware of.

“Even before his move to Hearts, he’s a player who has been on their radar for a while.

“He’s under contract still at Birmingham for another two years so we don’t know what Birmingham’s plans are for Marc Leonard.

“I’m sure he’s a player that Celtic are looking at, but again, I think there’ll be a lot of competition for his signature if Birmingham are willing to let him move on.”

Which other midfielders are on Celtic’s radar?

Celtic’s interest in Leonard comes as they continue to assess a number of potential additions in midfield, with the area set to be a focus this summer.

The likes of Reo Hatate and Arne Engels are attracting intense interest, while there are concerns about the long-term influence of players including Callum McGregor.

As a result, they are tracking transfer targets, and Football Insider revealed on 2 May that Celtic could move to sign Issa Doumbia from Venezia this summer.

The midfielder was a target for Celtic during the January window before they eventaully brought in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and they could now revisit the deal.

However, Venezia are not expected to let him go easily and have placed a £12million asking price on him in a bit to deter any potential suitors.

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