Celtic are reportedly in negotiations with Southampton about turning Jos Hooiveld's loan switch to St Mary's into a permanent deal.
The Dutch defender, who is under contract to the Hoops until summer 2013, made an initial loan move to the Championship leaders in August.
And, following an impressive start to the campaign for the Saints, the club are now hoping to tie him down to a permanent switch ahead of the January transfer window opening.
Hooiveld does not appear to have a future with Celtic having slipped out of boss Neil Lennon's plans since joining in 2010, while he has enjoyed a good run in Saints chief Nigel Adkins' side on the south coast as they currently sit five points clear at the top of the Championship table.
Therefore, provided a fee can be agreed between the two parties, it appears Hooiveld's Celtic days will be over come the New Year.