Blackburn's Steven Reid linked with Parkhead move

CELTIC are still searching for a permanent manager but they are keen not to lose ground in the transfer market after reportedly holding talks with Republic of Ireland midfielder Steven Reid.

Reid is coming to the end of his Blackburn contract and is available on a free transfer after being loaned to QPR and West Brom last season.

Neil Lennon remains in charge of Celtic team affairs and flew out to Germany with members of the first-team squad this morning for last night's friendly against St Pauli.

And Lennon's apparent recommendation of Reid to the Celtic board indicates he remains involved in planning for next season.

Celtic face competition from West Brom, though, after the 29-year-old helped the Baggies seal promotion following his arrival on loan in March.

Reid's arrival would add competition to the right midfield spot that Niall McGinn hopes to make his own next season. McGinn will miss the St Pauli game after going over on his foot during training yesterday but he is already looking forward to pre-season, especially the three-match tour of North America.

The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international told www.celticfc.net: "I want to hit the ground running at the start of pre-season. I want to go over to America and down to the Emirates Cup and enjoy both. We have a good pre-season lined up which gives us something to look forward to."