CELTIC target Kristoffer Ajer would be a top capture for Ronny Deila, according to his IK Start team-mate Espen Hoff.

The Glasgow giants are eyeing up a move for the talented 17-year-old Norwegian midfielder, and manager Deila had him watched in action against Bodo Glimt at the weekend.

The teenager is already captain of the Norwegian Tippeligaen outfit – the youngest in the top flight’s history – and is their regular playmaker in the side.

Having joined from Lillestrom last year and making his debut for Start at just 16, Ajer has caught the eye of Celts, PSG and also several English Premiership sides.

Hoff would be gutted to lose 6ft 5in Ajer’s services, but believes he would be a success in Scotland should the Hoops follow up their interest with a bid.

He said: “Ajer is undoubtedly the most talented player we have seen in this club for a very long time, and maybe also the most exciting talent in Norway at the moment.

“I believe he could develop to his potential in a club like Celtic, and grow into an asset for the club.

“It is also worth mentioning that he, besides his obvious talent for football, is an intelligent lad with good work ethic and puts in extra effort to reach his goals. So, yes, I believe he could do well in Celtic.”

Interest in Ajer could signal Celtic have given up hope of landing another Norwegian teenage star in Martin Odegaard, although the young Real Madrid midfielder does look likely to move on loan before the transfer window closes.