Thomas Rogne keen to see Erik Huseklepp arrival

The Parkhead club are reportedly close to clinching a 1.3 million deal with SK Brann Bergen for the services of the 26-year-old international striker. Huseklepp, who scored for Norway in the 4-0 home thrashing of Scotland in a World Cup qualifier in August 2009, is said to be interesting clubs in Spain, France, Germany and England but Rogne would like to see him join him in the east end of Glasgow.

"I wouldn't mind that at all," said the 20-year-old Celtic defender. "He's a great player. He is very technical and quick and he is tall, strong and powerful.

"He has done really well for his club in the Norwegian league and for the national team.

"I don't think Celtic needs to be sold to anyone, it's a massive club and everyone knows that. Celtic have great supporters, they play nice football and there is always pressure to win every game - but it's a good experience to have."

Rogne, the former Stabaek defender who moved to Celtic a year ago, insists Huseklepp, like many Scandinavian footballers, would have few problems adapting to the style of football in Britain. He said: "I am not 100 per cent sure why Scandinavians adapt well but we think it's because the game is similar, it is physical in Scandinavia and we always look to the UK when we watch football."

Rogne, who has only recently became a first-team regular after struggling with injury, accepts he may have to again fight for his place in the Celtic defence if manager Neil Lennon looks to bolster his defensive options during the transfer window.

"Personally I don't keep an eye on it because I know they probably are going to sign a defender because it's a big club and there is always going to be competition," the Norway Under-21 player said. "Players come in and players leave and that's the way it is. You should never be secure because then you get lazy and don't work as hard. You know that if you have a bad game you might be out of the team again so you always have to stay sharp and focused."

The personal significance of Celtic's 2-0 win over Rangers at the weekend was acknowledged by Rogne. In his Old Firm debut at Ibrox in February he had to go off in the first half of the 1-0 defeat with a hamstring injury which blighted his first season at the Glasgow club.

However, while he admits Celtic's players will take confidence from going four points clear of Rangers at the top of the SPL, Rogne does not believe the pendulum has necessarily swung Celtic's way. "I wouldn't call it a personal revenge for me but the last time I was off after 30 minutes so of course it was nice to stay on the pitch for the whole 90 this time," said Rogne.

"It was an important result for us, we needed it and of course it brings some confidence and happiness in to the team. But it is still an open race.I don't think the players look too much at the table. If Rangers win their two games in hand, they are going to be in front of us."