Celtic have established contact with Roy Keane about a possible move to Glasgow, BBC Scotland understands.
The club are keen to open talks with the former Manchester United skipper, who left Old Trafford on 18 November.
Keane, a Celtic fan, could move to the Scottish Premier League for no fee as he is a free agent, although his wage demands could be a stumbling block.
The 34-year-old is also believed to be weighing up options at several other clubs in England and on the continent.
West Ham and Bolton were the latest Premiership club to confirm their interest, joining West Brom, Portsmouth, Manchester City and Wigan.
However, Celtic are thought to be Keane's first choice.
The former Republic of Ireland captain once stated he would like to end his career at Celtic Park, but chairman Brian Quinn has already expressed his concern about his wages.
Keane is believed to have earned £90,000 a week at Old Trafford and Quinn told BBC Five Live that such a sum is "out of the question" for Celtic.
Officially, the club are playing down their talks with Keane.
"Celtic have not, at this point, entered into contract negotiations with Roy Keane or his representatives," a spokesman said on Wednesday.
However, it is understood that while contract negotiations as such have not started, initial contact has been made.
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