Celts turn to Norwegian star

Bragstad jostles for position against Yugoslavia at Euro 2000

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has set his sights on Norwegian international defender Bjorn Otto Bragstad after failing to agree a deal for Belgian Joos Valgaeren.

The Norwegian Euro 2000 star's club, Rosenborg, confirmed Celtic's interest in the player and indicated that he was free to leave the club.

But Celtic will face competition for the 29-year-old from Derby County and St Etienne.

O'Neill is likely to drop his interest in Valgaeren with the Belgian's club, Roda, reportedly looking for £6m for the player.

Valgaeren is unlikely to move to Celtic

Rosenborg general manager, Nils Skutle, said Bragstad would be available if the price was right.

"Celtic are interested and that has been the case for a while. I am just waiting for them to make contact again. We are ready to sell him because he has been here a long time and done his duty," he said.

"Derby and St Etienne are also interested, but we have received an inquiry from an agent working on Celtic's behalf.

"We have since contacted the club and are waiting for further developments."

O'Neill will definitely add to his squad before the beginning of the season, but he is unwilling to be held to ransom.

Celtic face FC Copenhagen in a friendly on Wednesday evening in Denmark, where record signing Chris Sutton could make his debut.