Sources: Claudio Brava to Celtic update tonight

Hearts have set out their stance on letting Claudio Braga join Celtic this summer amid his fine form in their push to win the Scottish Premiership title.

Braga is reportedly on Celtic’s radar as he shines for Hearts while they sit in pole position to win the league this season.

The 26-year-old has bagged 15 goals in 35 appearances for the Jambos so far this term following his move from Norwegian side Aalesund last summer.

Celtic have been linked to his services, but as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Hearts do not plan on selling him to a direct rival ahead of next season.

The Hoops’ transfer plans are on hold for now as they focus on winning the league, while they also need to appoint a new permanent manager to succeed Martin O’Neill.

Celtic face a challenge to land Claudio Braga this summer

Celtic are sitting second in the league table right now but face an uphill task to oust Hearts and win silverware this season.

One way to help themselves finish above the Jambos next season would be to sign one of their best players, but a move is unlikely, given their reluctance to sell.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “They want to keep him. Any player outside the Old Firm that is performing in Scotland normally gets linked to them, and that is probably the case with Claudio Braga right now.

“He’s been a revelation for Hearts since his arrival in the summer, and has been instrumental in their title push this season.

“So it’s no surprise that maybe other clubs are looking at him. I’m not too sure there’s too much in this link with Celtic.

“I think Hearts would be loathed to lose Claudio Braga to one of their main rivals Celtic as well so I think Hearts will be quite confident I can keep hold of him.

“If they end up winning the league and qualify for the Champions League, they’ll be confident they can keep hold of all their best players, including Braga.

“You’re probably looking around £4-5 million for him right now due to his form. And as I said, I don’t think Hearts would have any plans to let him move across Scotland to Celtic.”

Celtic want to sign Marcelo Saracchi permanently

Celtic brought in Uruguayan left-back Saracchi on loan from Boca Juniors last summer to provide competition to the returning Kieran Tierney.

He has impressed in his 19 appearances this season, with a goal and an assist each so far, but they do not hold an option to buy him in the loan deal.

The 27-year-old could still join the club permanently, as sources have told Football Insider that Celtic want to sign Saracchi, with Boca planning to sell him before the start of next term.

A move is set to hinge on his personal stance, and it remains unclear whether he is content to join the Hoops after struggling to feature over Tierney up to now.

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