Kwon Hyeok-kyu reveals madcap Celtic transfer tip off from army sergeant as he breaks silence on Parkhead desire

Celtic target Kwon Hyeok-kyu revealed the first time he was told about interest from the Hoops was from a South Korean army sergeant.

The 22-year-old central midfielder is nearing a move to the Scottish champions in a double swoop along with countryman Yang Hyun-jun, who has been a long-term target. Kwon was first linked with a switch to Scotland last year when former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou showed interest in the Busan IPark star.

At the time he was on loan at Gimcheon Sangmu - a second-tier team who are part of the sports division of the South Korean army - so he could complete his mandatory military service. And he revealed the surprising way he first heard about Celtic's interest. He said: "The first time I heard about a transfer to Celtic was from a sergeant in the army when I was at Gimcheon Sangmu, so it was an unusual way for me to find out! Then my agent confirmed the interest and told me I had an offer from a good club.

"When I heard it was from Celtic, I was delighted. My first thought was that I would get the chance to play in the Champions League. This would be a great opportunity for me to improve my game and a huge chance to really challenge myself. So if I get another offer from this club or a club in Europe, I will take it.

"But when I returned to Busan IPark, I had to go back to a relegated team. So I felt bad that they got relegated when I wasn't able to help them. My ultimate ambition is to wear the jersey of South Korea. Some people think that military service is unnecessary, but I was proud to help my country. I've played for the Under 23s and I hope there is an opportunity to win promotion to the senior squad."

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