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Premier League defender, 26, ‘on Celtic transfer shortlist’ as partner for Cameron Carter-Vickers – but there’s a catch
He isn't going to come cheap
CELTIC are looking to the Premier League to bolster their defensive line ahead of next season, according to reports.
Brendan Rodgers is believed to have identified a left-sided centre-back to play alongside standout Cameron Carter-Vickers.
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Liam Scales enjoyed a terrific turnaround in fortunes at Parkhead in the last campaign but boss Rodgers is hoping to sign an upgrade on the Irishman.
Bournemouth stopper Chris Mepham could be that man, with multiple outlets claiming he is one Celtic's transfer shortlist.
The Daily Mail and Football Scotland are reporting that the defender is of interest to Rodgers.
The Mail says that he would cost in the region of £8m - even more than prospective defensive partner Carter-Vickers.
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It's also being said that Gustaf Lagerbielke is expected to leave this summer.
And we told you tonight that Maik Nawrocki is understood to have turned down a move to his former club.
Mepham, 26, is a Welsh international but isn't a regular at the Vitality Stadium.
He has 36 caps for his country but injuries disrupted his playing time at club level last season, making just ten appearances.
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Mepham was a target for Leeds United in the January transfer window and has acknowledged that his future may lie away from the south coast of England.
He also feels he is entering the prime of his career.
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The 6ft3in stopper said earlier this season: "I am probably, in football terms, coming to the peak of a career now at 26. The next couple of years are important for me.
"It’s important to play week-in-week-out. If you are not getting the game time you want and need to you have to be open to all options.
"I just think sometimes things don’t always work out as you want and sometimes there’s a better fit for you elsewhere."
Meanwhile, Scotland's final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 has been all but confirmed.
SunSport understands Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon and Rangers defender John Souttar will be the two stars to miss out on the trip to the tournament in Germany.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page