Talks underway: Celtic in discussions to agree 6ft 4in defender deal - report
By Richard Parks
Celtic have opened talks with Kristoffer Ajer about a new long-term contract, according to a report.
The Scottish Sun claim the Glasgow giants have already begun discussions about tying the versatile Norwegian defender to extended terms.
It is said that Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell is set for further meetings with Ajer’s agent Tore Pedersen in a bid to reach an agreement that will keep the player at Parkhead beyond the summer of 2020.
The 19-year-old has secured a regular starting role at the Scottish champions this season and was rewarded with his first call-up for Norway on Tuesday.
Ajer, signed by Ronny Deila in January 2016, was sent on loan to Kilmarnock last season, but has made 24 appearances for Celtic this season.
Football Insider verdict:
It is a sign of Ajer's enhanced Parkhead status that he has started 10 of the club's last 11 league matches and can now expect, rather than hope, to be on Brendan Rodgers' teamsheet. An imposing centre-back who stands at 6ft 4in and reads the game well, Ajer demonstrated his versatility by filling in at right-back in last Sunday's memorable 3-2 win at Rangers. He has been gradually developed into a first teamer at Celtic and is a player the club will want to build around in the next few years. There is no doubt that Ajer is destined for a fine career at the top level.