Nagbe was spotted at Celtic Park this week.
A former Scottish Premiership defender now playing in the United States has backed Portland Timbers midfielder Darlington Nagbe to succeed at Celtic.
Nagbe was this week linked with a £1.5 million move to the Scottish champions, before his appearance at the Bhoys’ Champions League defeat to Barcelona on Wednesday added further fuel to the fire.
A report in the Oregonian, meanwhile, claims that Timbers are confident of hanging on to the USA international next season.
Although, if he is on his way to Celtic Park, the Bhoys will be getting one of Major League Soccer’s most exciting talents, according to ex-Hearts man Jose Goncalves.
“He is one of the most exciting players in the MLS,” the New England Revolution player said, as quoted by the Scottish Sun. “In the first year I came here, I saw Darlington and I knew he had the quality to move on to another top league.
“He’s a very good player and has good ability on the ball and he’s also got good technique. He is the type of player who looks for the forward pass, he is not someone who is looking to go from side to side. He can penetrate very quickly and moves fast with and without the ball at his feet.
Jose Goncalves (right)
“He’s definitely a player who could adapt to the Scottish game, because the way he plays he is similar to Scottish football, the tempo is high. He is always looking for the through ball and gives 100 per cent and I think he can be a very good player for Celtic.”
According to the Oregonian, Celtic will have to pay more than the £1.5 million quoted to prise Nagbe from Portland, where he has played since 2011.
The 26-year-old, who was born in Liberia but has 10 caps for his adopted nation, signed a new long-term contract in March this year.
Celtic have also been linked with moves for Brighton and Crystal Palace midfielders Dale Stephens and Jordon Mutch this week.
Dale Stephens
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
