Connor Barron Celtic transfer competition hots up as TWO Serie A clubs enter race for Aberdeen starlet

Celtic have been joined in the race to sign Connor Barron from Aberdeen with two Serie A clubs tracking the Scotland Under 21s star.

The Hoops have an interest in the 19-year-old after his impressive breakthrough campaign at Pittodrie. Belgian outfit RK Genk also have him on their transfer radar as interest hots up. Barron only signed a new deal with the Dons in January until 2024, but the Pittodrie club are already trying to renegotiate another deal with the talented youngster, with chairman Dave Cormack believed to be particularly keen to tie him down on a long-term contract.

But just days after they sold right back Calvin Ramsay to Liverpool for a record fee that could potentially rise to up to £8million, Barron has now attracted serious interest from Italy. Bologna are set to have money to spend with up to £18m heading their way with the imminent sale of Scotland defender Aaron Hickey.

And they have targeted the Scottish market again because they believe it would offer them value for money. They have been joined by ambitious Sassuolo, who finished in 11th place, two places above Bologna last season.

Highly-rated manager Alessio Dionisi has pinpointed Barron as a future prospect who could improve their club and they have registered an interest along with Bologna. Barron, who impressed for Scotland Under 21s during their goalless draw in Belgium earlier this month, is a huge part of manager Jim Goodwin's plans for the season and will be handed the shirt No.8 for the new campaign.

But Aberdeen have a major fight on their hands to keep hold of one of their brightest young starlets.

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