Rumour Mill: Boyd to Celtic? | King eyes Rangers | SPL play-off

CELTIC are looking into a summer move for George Boyd, Dundee United hit out at Johnny Russell’s agent, more developments in the boardroom at Rangers, and the rest of today’s latest football news and transfer gossip in Wednesday’s Rumour Mill.

Celtic target George Boyd, playing for Peterborough in 2011. Picture: Wikimedia Commons

Celtic eyeing George Boyd

Celtic are keen to sign playmaking midfielder George Boyd when his Peterborough contract runs out this summer.

Boyd is currently on loan at promotion hopefuls Hull City, and Celtic will reportedly face a fight to wrest the player from his temporary home at the KC Stadium. (Mail)

Dave King ‘looking to take over Rangers’

Former director Dave King is reportedly looking into a bid for Rangers.

The South Africa-based businessman, who recently secured a confidential agreement with the country’s authorities over hundreds of millions of pounds of unpaid taxes, is keen to put in a bid for Charles Green’s share in the club, according to the Mail.

However, King will face tough competition from bus mogul James Easdale. Green is believed to have agreed the sale of his shares in the club to Easdale for nearly £3 million. Green paid 1p per share for his holding in the club, which he is unable to sell until December under stock market rules.

This morning, Craig Mather was appointed interim chief executive of Rangers.

(Mail/Record/ Sky Sports News)

SPL promotion play-offs on SFL agenda

SFL restructuring proposals were shared with First Division teams earlier in the week - and they include a four-team play-off for SPL promotion.

The plans for a play-off between the second-bottom team in the top league and the second, third and fourth in the second tier are part of a phased restructure eyed by SFL chief David Longmuir.

Longmuir said: “The introduction of a new play-off place as the first step in a change programme shows commitment to an inclusive solution. It also widens and strengthens the bridge between the SFL and SPL.” (Scotsman)

Johnny Russell: United blast agent as Dailly chips in

Dundee United have reacted angrily to news that star striker Johnny Russell will not sign a new contract, as the centre forward bids to make a move away from Tannadice.

In a strongly-worded statement, the club said that Russell’s agent is “intent on forcing a transfer, at a fee which falls well below our valuation.”

Russell has been the subject of repeated bids from Italian side Catania in recent weeks. (Various)

Meanwhile, United legend Christian Dailly has said that an Italian move would be good news - for Russell’s agent.

Dailly said: “My advice to Johnny would be forget what your agent says and make sure the move is right for you.” (Courier)

Vladimir Romanov ‘facing embezzlement charges’

Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov could face charges of embezzlement in a Lithuanian court, and a possible seven year jail term.

Lithuanian authorities say that Romanov could face criminal charges over what is described as “a large-scale embezzlement”. Romanov claims he is innocent on the grounds that he has no assets left, after they were all frozen by a court in the country. (Express)

Celtic season ticket prices cut by £100

Celtic have slashed prices for season tickets by £100 for next season.

The SPL champions have cut prices, according to chief executive Peter Lawwell, to “reward the commitment” of fans after a successful year on and off the field.

Celtic have also introduced separate prices for under-13s, 13-16-year-olds, and under-18s.

Meanwhile, Gordon Strachan has jokingly referred to Neil Lennon’s three-match touchline ban for swearing as “f******g ridiculous.”

The former Celtic boss added: “I think he’s just been unfortunate that he was standing behind a mic at the time. Life can be cruel to you sometimes.” (Various)

Brown accuses Hibs of ‘throwing’ SPL

Dundee boss John Brown has claimed that his side are doomed to the drop - as Pat Fenlon’s Hibs have given up on the SPL to focus on the Scottish Cup final.

Brown said: “I was at Easter Road on Monday and felt I was looking at a team waiting for a cup final. I didn’t see any hunger, desire or willingness to put their foot in.”

Brown needs Fenlon’s side to prevent St Mirren from winning this weekend for Dundee to have any hope of remaining in the SPL. (Record)

Brazil unveils World Cup musical instrument

Good news for fans of the vuvuzela - the next World Cup already has its own signature musical instrument.

The caxiola is a percussion piece made from recycled plastic, and rattles when shaken. The instruments will be given to fans at this summer’s Confederations Cup in Brazil. (Sky News)