'Reminds me of Armstrong' - Exclusive: Pundit reacts as Celtic open new deal talks

Alan Hutton insists it would be "strange" if Celtic did not try to hand Ryan Christie a significant long-term contract this summer.

The former Rangers and Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, has lauded the "fantastic" attacking midfielder for his recent form and suggests the Bhoys should be tying him down for the foreseeable future.

The Scottish Sun report that the Hoops are in talks with the 25-year-old over a new deal which would run until at least 2023, with his current terms set to expire in 2022.

Hutton admits he does not understand why the Bhoys would only look to tie him down for a year more than his current terms and suggests they should be tabling a long-term deal.

"He must have a couple of years left anyway, I would say he's got a year or two left so to only give him a year onto his two years is a bit strange," Hutton told Football Insider.

"I think he's been a fantastic player, goals and assists he's been right up there. He kind of reminds me of Armstrong, who went to Southampton, same kind of mould, same kind of ability.

"I would have thought they'd have tried to tie him on a long-term deal but I think he'll be an integral part of the squad next season and moving forward and I'm sure, whatever the offer, it will be good enough to get him to stay.

Christie scored 19 goals and contributed 16 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions last season.

He has played a total of 94 times for the Bhoys, while he also has 11 Scotland caps to his name.

In other Celtic news, Noel Whelan has been left bouncing as the Hoops close in on a standout signing.

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