Hoops interest McGinn

Youngster keen on Scottish switch

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 30th November 2008

Hoops interest McGinn

Strachan: Celtic are expressing an interest

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Irish football's hottest prospect, Niall McGinn, admits he would welcome a move to SPL giants Celtic.

The 21-year-old is believed to be coveted by a host of top clubs, with the Hoops the latest to express an interest.

The youngster currently plys his trade with Derry City in the eircom Premier Division, shooting to prominence following a move from Dungannon Swifts in January.

He was recently voted young player of the year by the Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland, but is refusing to let his success go to his head.

While conceding that he would be keen on a switch to one of Britain's top sides, the Northern Ireland international is not prepared to leave his current surroundings to sit on the bench on a bigger stage.

"Celtic are obviously a big club and it is a great honour to discover that they are looking at me. It would be a great move," said McGinn.

"I was a Manchester United fan as a boy but Celtic were my Scottish team, so it is obviously something I would consider.

Options

"There are a few clubs in for me, so I will have a look at my options.

"But I don't want to play in the reserves, I want to play first-team football. I need to be playing regularly to keep me in the Northern Ireland squad.

"So there is no point leaving Derry City, where I am getting first-team football, to play in the reserves in Scotland, or for that matter, in England."

Celtic may need to move swiftly if they have any aspirations of taking McGinn to Parkhead, with Swansea believed to be leading the race for his signature.

The youngster's agent, Gerry Carlile, is well aware of the mounting interest in his client and admits he would be willing to talk with the reigning SPL champions.

"If Celtic are interested then they need to contact Derry City first and then contact me," he said.