Celtic reportedly want young Birmingham City defender Mitchell Roberts

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Celtic and Manchester City are set for a transfer tussle over the signing of young Birmingham City defender Mitchell Roberts, according to the Sun.

They report that the English defender is expected to be sold – at the right price – despite having signed a one-year professional contract.

The 18-year-old defender has recently battled back from a knee injury in order to apparently catch the eye of both the English and the Scottish champions.

And because the English transfer window has closed while the Scottish one remains open, Celtic believe they have the edge over City in the chase and will look to get the deal tied up quickly.

That said, they may have a challenge convincing Roberts to come, because according to the Birmingham official website, he feels John Stones is the best central defender in the world and City could offer the chance to play alongside him.

TBR’s view – One for the future but perhaps the kind of talent Celtic need

Celtic’s financial situation means that they know they can’t sign established, experienced talent and one of the best ways to get around that is to buy up young talent before it explodes.

The interest from City indicates just how good Roberts is and while there’s plenty that can change on the landscape of a young player’s development, Celtic will hope they can get him and he develops well.

Roberts will get more gametime at Celtic than at City – that much is almost guaranteed – but it’s just whether they can get him over the line and continue his progress.