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Celtic and Norway midfielder Stefan Johansen set to join Fulham

Celtic midfielder Stefan Johansen
Image: Celtic midfielder Stefan Johansen is close to completing a move to English Championship side Fulham

Celtic midfielder Stefan Johansen is close to a move to Sky Bet Championship side Fulham after two years at Parkhead.

The Scottish champions' manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed the Norwegian is moving on after failing to agree a contract extension.

He was the PFA Scotland Player of the Year after his first campaign in Glasgow but faded last season and was booked 16 times.

Johansen has only played once for Celtic this season in a Champions League qualifier against FC Astana and will now continue his career at Craven Cottage.

"Stefan's going into the last year of his contract," Rodgers said. "I have found him a really good guy.

"He has worked over pre-season and it's been difficult because he's been unable to reach an agreement with the club.

Brendan Rodgers looks on during the UEFA Champions League Play-off First leg with Hapoel
Image: Brendan Rodgers wanted to keep the midfielder but could not strike a deal with him over a new contract

"I think he has always wanted to play in England, so the opportunity has come for him. He wasn't going to sign a new deal, so it's one that probably works well for both really.

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"I don't think it's complete yet but it's something that could happen, possibly in the next couple of days."

Rodgers is gearing up for a busy few days before the transfer window closes with movement expected both ways with a potential £30m-plus Champions League windfall strengthening his hand.

He said: "Once qualification is done, it opens up some more funds, which is great. The club is going to try to continue to develop now and obviously this Champions League qualification helps us do that.

"We want to bring in the right profile of players that can help us, not just now, but in the next few years. Being in the Champions League will certainly make some players sit up and take notice.

James McCarthy of Everton celebrates
Image: James McCarthy of Everton is one name linked with Celtic in recent weeks

"We've got a few ideas of players that we want, but nothing imminent."

The likes of Efe Ambrose, Kris Commons and Emilio Izaguirre could join Johansen through the exit door but Rodgers had nothing concrete to report. 

"There's been a number of enquiries about our players," Rodgers said.

"So I think between them and their agents, they are obviously looking to get moves that will allow them the possibility to pay. But there is nothing imminent of anyone leaving now."

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