Ivaylo Petkov arrives at Paradise

Experienced Bulgarian full-back Ivaylo Petkov has arrived in Glasgow and a deal should be concluded for the player by Wednesday. The 30-year-old who is available on a free has began training at Celtic Park after leaving Turkish team Ankaragucu. Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has stated that Petkov is not on trial and that this period is purely about getting to know each other and the squad.

Representative Martin Reilly who claims that Galatasaray, Hertha Berlin and Willem II are also interested in his clients signature said: "There's no doubt Ivaylo is a quality player, but we will need a decision in the next couple of days. We know he has the quality to be an asset to Celtic."

It is vital that Celtic boost their squad by signing a left-back with the Champions League looming. Mo Camara who was signed from Burnley last season has struggled to impress and Charlie Mulgrew has been told to find a new club despite enjoying a successful loan spell with Dundee United last season. Ross Wallace is on trial at Birmingham resulting in Strachan using right-back Mark Wilson on the other flank.

Petkov has been capped 64 times for his country and the player has other options open to him according to his agent, "There are a number of clubs showing interest and we have other things lined up," said Reilly. "Hopefully he can show his quality during his time in Glasgow. There is a deadline (Wednesady) because we need to know one way or the other given the options he has available."