CELTIC have been placed on alert after it emerged Aiden McGeady's time at Everton looks like coming to an end.

It was strongly suggested on Merseyside yesterday that the Republic of Ireland international was set to hand in a transfer request, his move to Goodison having turned sour in the second half of last season.

We understand there are some inside Celtic Park who would love to see the 29-year-old return five years after he moved away to Spartak Moscow for a fee of £12million.

But like all players who ply their trade in the English Premier League, his wages would be a problem, something Celtic have been forced to deal with in recent years when they have been shopping.

McGeady started well at Everton, but was a fringe player by the end of last season.

These should be his best years and a player of such talent would not be satisfied with sitting on the bench at best.

McGeady would be treated as a hero if a deal could be done, as he is one former player who the vast majority of supporters would welcome back.

One player who could be on his way to Celtic in the near future is Dundee United striker Nadir Ciftci.

The Parkhead side have had a £900,000 bid turned down for the 23-year-old Turk and are expected to increase their bid for a player who is facing a charge of biting Dundee midfielder Jim McAlister on the leg during the final match of last season.

Asked about Ciftci, Celtic No2 John Collins said: “I believe there is an approach but that’s all I’ve heard and there’s not a lot I can tell you.

“He has obviously played against us many times last year, he’s a big striker, he’s strong, he’s powerful and he’s got technique as well. We like him."

Kris Commons is a doubt to face FC Stjarnan after breaking his little toe in an accident at his home.

However, Collins is confident that one of his team's key players will be ready.

He said: "Kris is getting better every day. Perhaps in another couple of days he’ll get back onto the grass and get his boots on.

“It’s his small toe, so too painful to put a boot on. It was a fracture, so you have to let it heal.

“We’re hoping that he will be able to train again in the next couple of days

“He’s been working in the gym on the bike, so he’s keeping his fitness up."

One boost has been the sight of Mikael Lustig training free from injury after his summer break.

Collins said: "Mikael has been back since the first day and has trained really well.

“He’s looking sharp and is a big player for us as well as a big character in the dressing room.

“He had a difficult time last year with injuries, but he’s looking fresh.

“It’s great news. Mikael proved how important he was to us last season when he did play and it’s good to have him back."