Celtic have started talks over a new contract for Gary Hooper and intend to resist any summer bids for the SPL's top scorer.
Lennon hoping to fend off any summer interest in striker
Celtic have started talks over a new contract for Gary Hooper and intend to resist any summer bids for the SPL's top scorer.
Hooper netted 29 goals for the Bhoys this season and has been a prolific scorer since moving to Parkhead from Scunthorpe United two years ago.
He was the subject of bids from Southampton during the January transfer window as his former Scunthorpe boss Nigel Adkins sought to take Hooper to St Mary's.
Southampton are understood to be preparing a fresh swoop for the 24-year-old after clinching promotion to the Premier League after finishing second in the Championship.
Happy
However, Celtic boss Neil Lennon is determined to fend off any interest in Hooper and confirmed initial discussions have been held regarding a new deal.
Lennon told
STV: "We had a preliminary meeting with his agent last week and it was very cordial.
"It went very well and we made it clear that we want Gary to stay.
"Gary likes it here and he's happy here. He's had such a good season and he's such a good player that no doubt there'll be clubs in for him, but we'll try and resist all offers that come our way."
