La Liga outfit Celta Vigo are leading the chase to sign Celtic defender Carl Starfelt, according to reports.

The Swedish international was left out of Brendan Rodgers' starting XI today as the champions defeated Ross County in the Scottish Premiership.

Rodgers confirmed at full-time that Starfelt was benched due to transfer interest, and now The Sun report that Celta Vigo are leading the chase.

Speaking at full-time Rodgers explained: “I wanted to put Carl Starfelt on, it might be his last appearance here.

“There has been interest for him and he wants to take up that possibility.

“We will resolve that as quick as we can. I thought it would be nice for him to get maybe a final appearance at Celtic Park. 

“The clubs are in communication. I’m sure that will go through early part of next week, if not before.

“Clearly he probably felt it was the time to move on.

“I have to say, he has been really respectful and has loved his time here.

“There are obviously certain conditions he has thought about in going to the one of the top leagues.

“Economically, it is hard to compete on that side and obviously his partner is no longer here anymore and has moved on.

“So there are a number of reasons why he would like to move on.

“I have to say, a total professional, first class, and if it didn’t go through, I know I can rely on him. But I think it probably will.”

Asked if a replacement was needed, Rodgers added: 

“Yes, we’d need to get another centre half.

“The whole ideal was to have four that could be competitive, and if Carl was to go, we would bring in another one.”