Aston Villa phenomenon targeted, Rodgers’ latest on Palma and loan Bhoy returns 'stronger' – Celtic transfer news

Celtic have reportedly set their sights on Aston Villa starlet Louie Barry.

The 21-year-old has just returned to the Hoops Champions League rivals after his latest loan spell away from Villa Park which saw him bag 15 goals in just 23 games. Barry was signed from Barcelona for just under £1million, having left West Brom to move to the Spanish giants in six years ago when he was just 16.

He spent only six months at the Nou Camp before returning to England. He has since had loan spells at Ipswich Town, Swindon Town, MK Dons, Salford City and two stints at Stockport.

Unai Emery will now assess Barry after his return to Villa Park but Football Insider say “Celtic are now set to enter the race for Barry’s signature and are considering a permanent bid for the striker.”

English Premier League duo Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City have both. been linked with the player previously and it has been suggested he could command a fee of up to £12.5m.

Brendan Rodgers admitted at his pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday's trip to Dundee the Hoops had back up plans in place with the champions braced for bids, with Kyogo one player heavily linked.

Another young striker currently at the club is Johnny Kenny who has returned from his own loan spell at Shamrock Rovers. He came on for his debut in the win over Ross County on Sunday and Rodgers said: "I was delighted for Johnny.

"Obviously young players come in before, had to go away. And I hadn't seen him before, but coming back in and speaking to the guys, yes, he looks a bit stronger than what he was before.

"The one thing what I love with young players is the enthusiasm. Because with enthusiasm, there's no expectation. They just come in and play. And they come and run. And