Italian transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has stated that German side Hoffenheim are in advanced talks to sign Michael Noonan. The Shamrock Rovers attacker has attracted interest from across Europe after a successful breakthrough period for the Dublin outfit.

Celtic have been one of the teams linked with a move for the attacker but it looks as if the Bundesliga side are in pole position after entering talks.

Celtic are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements with Martin O’Neill eyeing two before the window shuts. Noonan would be a player for the future rather than a first team ready option. You can sympathise with the player wanting to resolve his future with the Bundesliga option perhaps more attractive.

Dermot Desmond has a stake with Shamrock Rovers and you’d think he’d be able to play matchmaker if the price was right. Celtic have previously signed Liam Scales from Rovers as well as doing a deal to loan Johnny Kenny to the Tallaght side.