Celtic and Wolves are reportedly battling for defender Barry Douglas.
According to The Mirror, Wolverhampton Wanderers are ready to hijack Celtic’s move to sign Konyaspor defender Barry Douglas.
Douglas, 27, was born in Glasgow and made his name in Scotland with Dundee United, racking up 76 games for the Terrors following a 2010 move from Queen’s Park.
Three years at Tannadice saw Douglas earn a surprise move to Poland with Lech Poznan, and he then moved on to Turkey in January 2016 in order to join Konyaspor.
Barry Douglas (R) in action with Celtic’s James Forrest
Earlier today, Turkish newspaper Konyanin Sesi reported that Celtic had agreed a deal to sign left back Douglas, paying €750,000 (£660,000) up front and another €150,000 (£130,000) based on his performance.
That report stated that Douglas’ partner is insisting on a return to Scotland after four years away, and whilst Celtic were thought to be closing in on his signature, there could be a twist in the tale.
The Mirror report that Wolverhampton Wanderers are now interested in hijacking Celtic’s move for Douglas, as they pursue another defender having already signed three this summer.
Nuno’s men have brought in right back Phil Ofosu-Ayeh as well as centre backs Ryan Bennett and Roderick Miranda, and landing Douglas could complete the defensive overhaul at left back.
Dundee’s Nicky Riley (R) in action with Barry Douglas
Matt Doherty has been a reliable servant at left back despite being left footed, and Douglas may now be seen as a player who can offer natural balance to the Wolves defence.
Champions League football and a return to Scotland could be enough to give Celtic the upper hand in the race for Douglas’ signature, but Wolves’ late move could give Brendan Rodgers’ men some cause for concern.
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