Rumour mill: Joey Barton open to Celtic move | Wigan join Scott Allan hunt

Joey Barton would only move to Parkhead if Rangers were back in the top flight. Picture: PA

Joey Barton open to playing for Celtic

Former England international Joey Barton has stated his desire to one day feature in an Old Firm derby when asked on social media if he would consider joining Celtic.

The controversial midfielder was open on the idea of seeing out his career at Parkhead, but would only wish to do so if it included the opportunity to play in four league Old Firm derbies per season. (The Sun)

Wigan have joined race to sign Scott Allan

Wigan have approached Hibs over the possibility of signing midfielder Scott Allan.

Yesterday it emerged that Rotherham had made an offer for the player, though it is understood the player is not keen on a move with his heart set on joining boyhood heroes Rangers.

Wigan will likely face the same problem but will hope their recent history of playing in England’s top flight will make them a more attractive option.

Hibs have remained adamant they won’t sell to Rangers, but have remained open to selling the player to another suitor for the right price.(Sky Sports)

Rangers rival Rotherham in 4th bid for Allan

Rangers are ready to make a fourth bid for Allan after Rotherham United joined them in pursuit of the Hibs midfielder.

A bid of £375,000 from the English Championship club was turned down by Hibs for Allan who has a year remaining on his contract at Easter Road.

Rotherham are expected to return with a higher offer for Allan. It is understood Rangers’ third offer was in the region of £280,000. (Scotsman)

Ronald Koeman coy on Virgil van Dijk interest

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman refused to confirm or deny his rumoured interest in Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk.

The South Coast club had reportedly offered £7 million for the player, though this was rebuked by Celtic boss Ronny Deila.

When asked about the reports, Koeman said: “It’s a lot in the media about the player. I think it’s the best in my position to say nothing about that, because everybody knows he’s a good player, it’s a lot of interest for the player. Let’s see what happens.” (Daily Express)

Hearts deal for Canadian kid Dario Zanatta

Canadian youth internationalist Dario Zanatta has joined Hearts on a two-year contract, the Evening News can reveal.

The 18-year-old midfielder arrived on trial last month and has now completed a permanent move to Edinburgh. He and joins the under-20 squad at Riccarton.

A forward or midfielder, Zanatta spent time on trial at both IFK Gothenburg and Ipswich Town earlier this year. (Evening News)

Hearts consider deal for former Fulham youngster

Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson is assessing 22-year-old former Fulham winger Wilson Carvalho.

The wide-player scored for Hearts Under-20s in their opening SPFL Development League game against Rangers on Tuesday, which ended 2-2.

Carvalho is a player with impressive pace, who has played at Fulham, Port Vale and Stevenage. He is expected to remain on trial at Hearts for the rest of the week while Neilson and his coaching staff decide if he should stay longer. (Evening News)

Hull City make move for Shaun Maloney

Hull City have made an offer for Scottish international Shaun Maloney as they bid to bring the player back to British football.

The midfielder moved to MLS with Chicago Fire in January following a successful four-year spell with Wigan where he helped the Lancashire club win the FA Cup.

Maloney’s time in the United States has been less productive, with injury problems curtailing his appearances thus far. Chicago Fire confirmed Hull’s interest. (Various)

Team to feed off fans’ passion, says Derek McInnes

Derek McInnes believes his team can feed off the passion of Aberdeen’s fans as they hope to secure tonight against Kairat Almaty in the second leg of their Europa League qualifier.

The Dons trail 2-1 from last week’s encounter in Kazahkstan and tonight could see nearer 20,000 inside Pittodrie as the club bid to reach the play-off round, two matches from the highly coveted group stages. (Scotsman)