Celtic linked with Middlesbrough’s Rhys Williams

Rhys Williams: Celtic interest. Picture: Getty Images

CELTIC are pursuing £1.5 million-rated Middlesbrough defender Rhys Williams, it has been reported.

The versatile Australian international nominally plays as a centre-half, but is also able to take a right-back or holding midfield role. The 25-year-old was reportedly close to agreeing a deal with Swansea last week, but Celtic have been made aware of the situation because no agreement between the clubs has taken place.

Middlesbrough are understood to be willing to part with Williams because of his wages, which are around £20,000 a week. Celtic may find difficulty in matching those terms, but the promise of Champions League football and trophies has often proven to be a substantial bargaining chip for Celtic.