Celtic transfer target Mahamadou Diawara has been cleared for a transfer exit from Lyon, according to reports.
The young French midfielder, 19, was repeatedly linked with a possible move to Glasgow over the summer.
On deadline day, it was claimed Celtic even had a bid for Diawara thrown out by the Ligue 1 club.
However, it now appears the midfielder will depart Lyon in January as he seeks first-team football with his minutes seriously limited at his current club.
L'Equipe claims Diawara has reached an agreement with club officials for a move to be sanctioned next month with Celtic amongst reported interested suitors.
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It's thought a permanent exit is possible for Diawara, who has only played five times this season.
The teenager featured off the bench for Lyon twice in the Europa League, including a cameo against Rangers in the 4-1 win at Ibrox last month.
Diawara also played once for the B team at Lyon in September in a stop-start season for the midfielder.
Reports in France had stated Celtic had a loan to buy offer for Diawara rejected in the summer as Brendan Rodgers looked to bolster his midfield options after Matt O'Riley left the club.
At the time, it was reported the deal would have included a possible buy clause of around £7m should Celtic have wished to sign Diawara on permanent terms.
