Gustaf Lagerbielke delivers clear Celtic message to Brendan Rodgers as he reveals transfer interest

Gustaf Lagerbielke has made no secret of his desire to play as he considers his Celtic future.

Brendan Rodgers swooped to bring the Swedish defender to Parkhead last summer in a £3million package from Elsfborg but he quickly fell down the pecking order. Liam Scales' emergence during an injury crisis and the return of key defender Cameron Carter-Vickers pushed the defender down the rankings with Maik Nawrocki and Stephen Welsh also on the books of the Scottish champions.

His debut campaign brought just ten appearances in all competitions which included a Old Firm derby run out against Rangers and a Champions League winning goal against Feyenoord on matchday six to end the Hoops' long wait for a victory on the big European stage. Back in January, the defender was all set for a switch to Italy with Lecce but the move was pulled at the last minute meaning he spent a further frustrating six months on the fringes.

Speaking in his homeland to Fotbollskanalen, the 24-year-old has admitted he has interest in his services from Italy and other leagues but still dropped his biggest hint yet he will leave this summer.

He said: "Yes, there are interested teams in Italy and also other leagues. Just like all other players, I want to play and make a difference. I am ready to do so if the opportunity arises. It is difficult to say anything before something is ready. I have a contract with Celtic, but it's no secret that I want to play."

On his first season at Celtic and playing abroad in a different league, he added: "Very instructive. I have developed a lot and become a better player. I have brought a lot with me. I'm looking forward to the future and I think I'll take a lot from Celtic to the next team I join."