Neil Lennon predicted a bidding war for his prize asset but it now looks like Aston Villa have stolen a march in the race for John McGinn.

According to reports, the Villains are in talks over a move for the Scotland international as Steve Bruce looks to build a squad capable of navigating its way out of the Championship.

Celtic have had three bids snubbed for McGinn and the 23-year-old is now reportedly set to head to the West Midlands instead for talks over a switch to Villa Park.

While Celtic may eventually lose out in the battle for McGinn's signature, Brendan Rodgers is determined not to suffer a double-blow by also seeing Dedryck Boyata depart the Hoops.

Fulham reportedly had a £9m bid for the Belgian centre-half thrown out by Parkhead chiefs yesterday.

However, the Cottagers are expected to return with an offer of up to £12m to test the Scottish champions' resolve before the English transfer slams shut later this week.

Elsewhere, Rangers are on the verge of signing Croatian defender Borna Barisic, while Motherwell are said to be in for Hearts midfielder Ross Callachan.