Chelsea and Liverpool keeping tabs on Celtic target Jarrad Branthwaite

Celtic look set to face further competition in the race to sign the highly rated Jarrad Branthwaite in January with both Chelsea and Liverpool keeping tabs on the 17-year-old.

The likes of Newcastle, Leicester City and Aston Villa have all been linked with a move for Branthwaite next month, with the Foxes previously said to be in pole position to sign him.

However according to the Daily Mail, Chelsea and Liverpool are also now interested in the Carlisle United talent while Manchester City have also been linked with the teenager. 

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Interest in Branthwaite has continued to grow as the season has progressed, and it is no surprise to see the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool now both interested in him.

Celtic have scouted the 17-year-old on a number of occasions this season, with Nick Hammond even making a trip to watch him in person earlier in the campaign.

The Hoops may now need to act quickly in their pursuit of his signature given the number of sides who are keen to sign him next month.