Celtic refuse to rule out interest in Gary Hooper

The 26 year-old is expected to leave Norwich City following their relegation from the Premiership with his former club on the look out for a striker to bolster their upcoming Champions League campaign.

Celtic boss Lennon said: “I would imagine the Hooper thing would rumble on, but whether we could tempt him back or not, I don’t know.

“I don’t like talking about a player who’s under contract at another club, but we think very highly of Gary, put it that way.

“Whether we could do a deal or the club would entertain, I don’t know, It would be nice to have him back.”

Hooper signed a three-year deal with Norwich last season for an undisclosed fee of around £5m.

During his three-year spell with Celtic, Hooper scored 63 goals in 95 appearances although he was less prolific with Norwich City in the Premiership where his goal tally is six goals in 31 games.

Celtic winger Kris Commons said he would welcome the return of Gary Hooper to Celtic Park.

“Undoubtedly he is one of the best players I have ever performed alongside.

“I don’t think it’s that unrealistic we could get him back one day. Obviously Lionel Messi would be perfect but I’d like to bring back Hoops.”

Wanyama

Hooper’s former team mate Victor Wanyama looks set to move on from Southampton after moving to the Premiership from Parkhead for £12.5m 12 months ago.

The Kenyan midfielder has failed to settle since his move and has expressed an interest in leaving St Mary’s with Aston Villa expressing an interest.