Bhoys in Pearson talks

The exciting midfielder is high on O'Neill's wanted list but is also coveted by Rangers, Everton and Blackburn Rovers.

O'Neill is aiming to steal a march on his rivals by thrashing out a deal to lure the 21-year-old to Parkhead during January's transfer window.

Motherwell have spent much of the season refuting rumours that a move for Pearson is in the pipeline, but it now appears the boyhood Celtic fan is close to leaving Fir Park.

The Bhoys have yet to concur on a fee with their SPL counterparts but O'Neill is hoping a deal can be struck to bring one of Scottish football's brightest prospects to Glasgow.

"I have spoken to Terry (Butcher) about him and I think the two clubs have been in contact with each other," O'Neill told the club's official website.

"At this moment and certainly since yesterday and onwards, there has been no more word.

"I have more than a passing interest but we have not done anything else but speak to them.

"The two clubs are speaking at this minute and Motherwell have had interest from other particular clubs as well so they are weighing up their options."

O'Neill also confirmed his eagerness to extend the contract of Johan Mjallby, with the Swede's present deal expiring at the end of the season.

He added: "I know Bolton have been mentioned but he has not spoken to me directly at all.

"It's a situation like anything else. On January 1, he is in a position to speak to other clubs as are a number of players.

"I would be hopeful that he will sign. I hope to try to do something and we aren't a long way away."