CELTIC believe they can sign Scott Allan from Hibernian over the next few days from under the noses of Rangers.

Talks have started between the champions, the 23-year-old and Hibs although no deal as yet has been agreed.

Allan has been the subject of three failed bids from Rangers since the transfer window opened - the last one being around £300,000 - which adds spice to this not entirely unexpected move by Celtic.

The midfielder put in a transfer request when it became clear Hibs were not willing to sell him to him to their main rivals in the Championship.

But while the Edinburgh outfit were determined he did not end up at Ibrox, they are clearly ready to at least discuss a deal with Celtic, something that will frustrate Rangers manager Mark Warburton.

It is understood that Dylan McGeouch would move to Easter Road as part of the deal on a permanent move and there has also been a suggestion that Callum McGegor could also go to Leith on loan.

McGeouch spent last season on loan at Hibs and Alan Stubbs was always hopeful that he would return.