Celtic are desperate not to lose star striker Gary Hooper.

The Scottish Sun says Hooper - who has 18 months of his current deal to run - had been in discussions with Hoops hierarchy.

Hopes of extending his Parkhead stay were fading last night with Liverpool AND Newcastle United on red alert.

Celtic gaffer Neil Lennon is still desperate to finalise a new deal.

Hooper underlined his importance as Celtic secured their first ever away win in the Champions League in Russia last week. He has been a prolific scorer since joining from Scunthorpe for £2.4million in 2010.

After watching him score Celtic's opener in last week's 3-2 win over Spartak Moscow, Lennon confessed: "We're hoping to talk to his agent soon about a new deal but he's just put £25,000 a week on his wage."