Celtic transfer target Mahamadou Diawara has reportedly been given the green light to leave Lyon.
The 19-year-old French midfielder was heavily linked with a potential move to Glasgow during the summer transfer window.
On deadline day, reports suggested Celtic had submitted an offer for Diawara, but it was turned down by the Ligue 1 side.
Now, it seems the player is set to leave Lyon in January as he aims for more regular first-team action, with his playing time at the club being significantly restricted.
According to L’Équipe, Diawara has reached an agreement with Lyon’s management to facilitate a transfer next month, with Celtic among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his signature.
It is believed a permanent transfer could be on the cards for Diawara, who has made just five appearances this season.
The teenager featured as a substitute twice in the Europa League, including a brief stint during Lyon’s 4-1 victory over Rangers at Ibrox last month.
He also played one match for Lyon’s B team in September, reflecting a stop-start campaign for the midfielder.
Reports from France previously suggested that Celtic had proposed a loan-to-buy deal for Diawara in the summer, as Brendan Rodgers sought to strengthen the midfield following Matt O’Riley’s departure.
The proposed deal reportedly included a buy option worth approximately £7 million, which would have allowed Celtic to sign Diawara permanently. However, the offer was rejected.
