CELTIC boss Neil Lennon is seeking 'encouragement' from Saints before trying to thrash out a deal for Fraser Forster.

The goalkeeper spent the season on loan and played an important role in helping them seal their ninth consecutive Scottish title.

However, after Celtic's campaign was curtailed due to the coronavirus crisis, Forster is due to be out of action until the 2020/21 season.

Explaining the situation from his side's point of view, Lennon said: “It’s one we would like to do, but we will need to take a steer off Southampton on that.

“Whether we can or not is another thing. It is an avenue we would like to pursue.

“In terms of dialogue between the clubs, I am not aware of that. If we could get some sort of encouragement on that front, we will definitely speak to them.”

The Daily Echo previously reported Celtic midfielder Olivier Ntcham is a summer target for Saints and that they would be willing to send Forster the other way.

But the St Mary's side aren't placing that potential transaction high on their list of priorities ahead of Project Restart.

Manager Ralph Hasehuttl is currently getting his team ready to resume their Premier League campaign against Norwich on Friday, June 19 [6pm].