‘Absolutely magnificent’: Chief executive hails Celtic-linked 28-year-old international

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Celtic are reportedly on the verge of bringing Shane Duffy to Parkhead on loan.

With speculation hotting up regarding the Hoops and Duffy, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has described the Republic of Ireland defender as “absolutely magnificent”.

Celtic boss Neil Lennon confirmed to OTB Sports earlier this month that “tentative enquiries” had been made over the 28-year-old.

Now, the Daily Record has claimed that the Bhoys have all but won the race for Duffy amid competition from English sides West Ham and West Brom.

The outlet also reported that Duffy has made clear he wants to move to Glasgow, and is set to be in the city on Tuesday to iron out the final details on a one-year loan deal.

“Shane has been absolutely magnificent for us, literally from the day he joined,” Barber told talkSPORT on Monday.

“He is a massive character on the pitch, he is an even bigger character off the pitch. He is loved by everyone at the club.

“It is a difficult decision for Graham (Potter, manager) because there are so many centre-backs you can accommodate in one line-up, but Shane has been magnificent.

“We will be disappointed if we do lose him, but we also understand he wants to play football.”

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It’s clear that Duffy is highly rated at Brighton, but with the Seagulls having numerous defenders in their ranks, it’s understandable for him to seek first-team football elsewhere.

An experienced, high-calibre centre-back and a boyhood Celtic fan, he seems like the perfect fit for the Hoops in their quest for 10 In A Row and it looks as though a move is very close.