Celtic have already been linked with an array of players both in England and in Europe  but Lawwell dismissed most of those interests as pure speculation.

The chief executive said: “As is the case in every close season, particularly with Celtic, press speculation has linked many names with the club.

“While the club chooses to conduct its business quietly and in private, there is very little we can do about this speculation.

“However, it should be said that there have been numerous players mentioned who have never interested the club and who we have had absolutely no contact with.

“We have only made two bids for players, one of which was accepted for Patrick McCourt. 

“Any other claims that we have made bids for other players are nonsense.

“ Clearly, we do have our own real targets and we are working to secure these.