Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane is expected to join Celtic on a free transfer this week, according to BBC Scotland.
It is thought the player's salary will be paid directly by Celtic's major shareholder Dermot Desmond.
Keane left Manchester United in a shock exit last month, after playing for the club for over 12 years.
So far Celtic have refused to comment on the move, but it is understood that the deal is set to go through soon.
Premiership teams Bolton, Everton, West Brom and West Ham have all expressed an interest in signing Keane.
But in the past the footballer said he would find it difficult to play for another Premiership side after playing for United for so many years.
Keane won't be allowed to play for the SPL leaders until the winter transfer window opens, so he could debut for Celtic in their match against Hearts on 1 January 2006.