By Simon Griver
Israel star Beram Kayal is being linked with a big-money move to Premier League giants Liverpool.
Reds boss Kenny Dalglish was at Parkhead last week to run his eye over the Celtic midfielder, who captained the Hoops in their 1-0 Europa League defeat by Atletico Madrid.
Dalglish has shortlisted Kayal to replace Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva, who is injured for the rest of the season.
Kayal's £8 million pound price tag would make him the most expensive ever Israeli signing.
Kayal's uncle and advisor Hamoudi Kayal, himself a professional footballer, told The JC, "These rumours about Kenny Dalglish wanting Beram are very flattering and they give him extra motivation to train harder and play even better.
"I think everybody knows that Beram is worthy of playing in the English Premier League and he has certainly proven himself in the SPL."
He added, "It is no secret that Beram sees Celtic as a stepping stone to one of the big clubs in England. That said, Beram has just signed a new contract and he is completely focused on helping Celtic to win the SPL title and advance in the Europa League."