Celtic transfer state of play as Sydney van Hooijdonk's intention revealed and AFTER deadline exit looms

It's been a link that has stretched two transfers windows and one passing remark from a commentator escalated the potential of a familiar-sounding incoming in Glasgow's east end..

Yes, Sydney van Hooijdonk appears to be on the way out of Bologna after Thiago Motta signed Santiago Castro just as a TNT Sports commentator claimed the son of Pierre was off to Celtic. It's understood that proclamation was on the ambitious side, however, interest is rising in the 23-year-old who will be allowed to leave the Champions League chasers on loan.

And Brendan Rodgers' side – in the market for another striker – have been named as the place his camp want to take him in the final days of January. Corriere di Bologna state his inner circle, which includes former Celtic star Pierre, are mulling over offers from Spain, Turkey and the Netherlands but they appear keen to explore the potential of a Parkhead switch.

Van Hooijdonk scored 19 goals for Heerenveen last season but has found game time with Bologna hard to come by. And that will see him likely exit once again before Thursday.

Elsewhere, Yuki Kobayashi could seal a protracted move to Major League Soccer after the window shuts at 11.30pm on Thursday night in Scotland. The MLS' window is only opening and the former Vissel Kobe man has strong interest from Dallas and Real Salt Lake.

It was a similar story with Giorgos Giakoumakis 12 months ago as he didn't officially join until February 8. And with the window open Stateside until April, there may is no rush to get a deal over the line.