Bhoys monitoring Arca

Celtic are believed to be considering a move for Sunderland's Argentine star Julio Arca.

The 23-year-old is out of contract at The Stadium of Light in the summer and a new deal is yet to be agreed.

The Black Cats have already signalled their intent to keep Arca at the club, but the fallen North East giants are struggling financially and could not afford to lose their prized asset for nothing next summer.

Arca is a firm fans favourite and is already a proven Premiership player, after starring for Sunderland before their relegation in 2003.

The South American was one of the few players from Sunderland's Premiership side not to be sold, but now his future is uncertain and Celtic are gearing up with an offer.

The Bhoys know that Sunderland's last chance to get any money for Arca is in January when the transfer window reopens.

Manchester City were linked with a summer move for Arca, but it now seems that Martin O'Neill's outfit are leading the chase.

Sunderland are likely to try and tempt Arca into signing a new deal before January.