Sources: Sampdoria make move to sign Celtic star Rocco Vata
Sampdoria have joined Bologna and Como in the race to sign Celtic attacker Rocco Vata, sources have told Football Insider.
The 18-year-old’s current deal at Celtic expires in the summer, so he is free to speak to any interested clubs.
Serie A side Bologna have held talks over signing Vata this month, while Serie B outfit Como have made contact with Celtic over a potential deal.
Como’s Serie B rivals Sampdoria have also registered their interest in a deal for Vata as they look to lure the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international to Italy.
The Hoops have granted permission for Vata to leave the club this month despite knocking back multiple offers for him in the summer.
Vata has not made a senior appearance under Brendan Rodgers this season or made it into a matchday squad, but he has been a standout for Celtic B.
His 12 goals across 15 appearances in the Lowlands League this season have helped the reserve side to ninth place.
The teenager, the son of former Celtic and Albania international Rudi Vata, has received numerous call-ups to the Republic of Ireland youth teams.
He made his last appearance in a European Championship qualifier against Belgium for the under-19s in November.
Celtic sit top of the league and remain eight points ahead of second-place Rangers.
They next face Buckie Thistle in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup on Sunday afternoon (21 January).
In other news, Revealed: Major update on Celtic signing 25-year-old Premier League goalkeeper.