AC Milan are among a host of European clubs believed to be pursuing a move for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels this summer transfer window.
The Belgian has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in Scottish football, with multiple clubs across the continent tracking his situation at Parkhead.
Engels was the subject of a £25 million bid from Nottingham Forest during the January transfer window, which Celtic firmly rejected at the time.
Interest in the midfielder has only intensified since that approach, with Serie A clubs now understood to have joined the pursuit in significant numbers.
Sources in Engels’ homeland have claimed the £11 million Celtic signing has switched agents as he looks to advance his career to the next level.
Capped four times by Belgium, Engels missed out on a place in the World Cup Finals despite his impressive performances for his club.
With two years remaining on his contract at Celtic, further big-money bids are widely expected to land at Parkhead during the summer window.
Lazio’s interest in the midfielder became known last month, and AC Milan are now believed to have entered the mix as they reshape their squad at the San Siro.
Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini was an admirer of Engels during his time in charge of Atalanta and could also join the chase with his club in the Champions League.
The £25 million valuation placed on Engels by Nottingham Forest has signalled to Celtic chiefs that they stand to make a substantial profit on their initial investment.
Engels signed for Celtic from Club Brugge for £11 million two years ago under manager Brendan Rodgers, representing a significant outlay at the time.
Forest’s pursuit has also demonstrated that clubs in England’s top flight are keeping a close eye on the midfielder’s development in Glasgow.
Celtic’s squad is expected to undergo major changes during the summer, with alterations planned both in terms of arrivals and departures across several positions.
That process is anticipated to accelerate once the club completes the appointment of a new manager ahead of the upcoming season.
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