Manager Neil Lennon has been delighted with the way Efrain Juarez has settled into the club after arriving in the summer.
Now the Parkhead club’s investment in developing links with Central America has thrown up another possible signing in 19-year-old Ruelas.
Reports in Mexico claim he is on his way from his club Santos to Glasgow on a season-long loan, with the option of a permanent deal being struck if the former Chivas US player impresses in Glasgow.
A Santos spokesman confirmed: “As part of a co-operation agreement between Santos Laguna and Celtic, it has been confirmed a temporary arrangement with an option to buy for our player, Gustavo Adrian Ruelas Aguilar, has been reached with the Scottish team.”
Californian-born Ruelas has already proved a big hit on the other side of the Atlantic. He played for the Mexican national under-age sides, but has since switched allegiance to the US and is a member of their successful Under-20 squad.
He first came to the attention of scouts from this country during the summer when he played for America in the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland, scoring three goals.
Celtic have used their contacts in Mexico to put together a deal to bring him over for a year, and the teenager is expected to initially be part of the growing development squad which is under the control of Danny McGrain.
Lennon is already exploring the possibility of signing Trinidad teenage hot-shot Shahdon Winchester, who has made a strong case for a deal with his performances in training and with two goals in a game against Motherwell reserves earlier this week.
The Hoops boss would also like to add some experience to his defence, and the door has not been closed on Danny Shittu, who remains a free agent after ending his contract with Bolton.
The 30-year-old Nigerian is also being chased by clubs in the English Championship and has the option of moving to Egypt to play for Al-Ahli.
But he refuses to be rushed and said: “I want to take my time as this is such a big thing for my future. I’m feeling extremely fit and have been training every day to maintain fitness.
“I believe I had a good World Cup with Nigeria and I just want to make sure I find the right club.”
