Have Hibernian planned a deal which could help Celtic land John McGinn?

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Celtic are hoping to finally sign John McGinn from Scottish Premiership rivals Hibernian this summer – and Hibs have a potential replacement in mind.

With Hibernian making an excellent return to the Scottish Premiership this season, some have even claimed that Neil Lennon has the best midfield in the country at Easter Road.

But the brilliant triumvirate of Scott Allan, Dylan McGeouch and John McGinn could be broken up after just one superb season. As it stands, Allan is set to return to Celtic when his loan deal expires, McGeouch is out of contract and McGinn is one of the most in demand players in the entire division.

Speaking to the Scottish Sun on Monday, McGinn was at pains to point out that he is happy in Edinburgh – but added that he is very ambitious and keen to play at a higher level.

This should encourage Celtic, who have been linked for a number of months and, according to The Chronicle, were set to make a move this summer for a player Lennon believes is worth about £5 million.

Moving to Celtic would give McGinn the chance to win league titles and play Champions League football – surely that constitutes a ‘higher level’.

And, in a potential boost to Brendan Rodgers and co at Parkhead, the Daily Record claims that Hibernian are keen to sign 26-year-old Hamilton playmaker Ali Crawford this summer when his contract expires.

A dynamic and creative talent, Crawford could be seen as a readymade replacement for Allan, McGeouch or McGinn. And if he swaps Hamilton for Hibs, Celtic will be hoping this will open the door for McGinn to move to Glasgow.