Rocco Vata Celtic contract stall sees Watford take transfer pole position but clubs keen

Rocco Vata's contract talks with Celtic have stalled as he enters negotiations with other clubs.

The youngster had been in discussions with the Hoops about extending his contract as they had hoped to keep him at Parkhead amid interest from clubs down south and abroad in Serie A. Football Scotland understands the player was offered a four-year deal to remain in Glasgow but that has not yet been agreed upon.

And Watford are now one side down south who are pushing to try and take the player from the Scottish champions on what would be a cross-border compensation package and less than the finances Celts hope to make down the line.

We also understand there are other EFL clubs in the Championship still waiting to have their chance with the 19-year-old and his representation with Ipswich and Norwich both interested.

Vata's current deal at Celtic expires this weekend but sources have suggested to Football Scotland that Celtic they would remain in the driving seat over the attacker's future if they can agree on terms.

Vata, son of Rudi, scored his first first-team goal last term against Buckie Thistle and also managed an appearance in the league against Aberdeen.

He'd played before then, five times, for the main squad.