INVERNESS Caledonian Thistle face stiff competition if they decide to open negotiations for the former Racing Santander striker John-Christophe Ayina.

The Frenchman scored in last Wednesday's trial appearance against city neighbours Clachnacuddin.

John Hughes, the Inverness manager, says he is not yet certain to make a move for Ayina, who also enjoyed a spell in the Paris St Germain B team.

Ayina's UK agent, Abdul Bihi, claims talks with Inverness are imminent, but warned that Hughes faces competition for the 23-year-old from another Scottish Premiership club and two English League 1 outfits.