Neil Lennon remains confident on new Celtic deal for Gary Hooper

Gary Hooper has reportedly attracted interest from Liverpool.SNS Group

Neil Lennon believes Celtic aren't "too far away" from agreeing a new contract with Gary Hooper.

The English striker, who joined from Scunthorpe in 2010, has been in talks with the club since last May.

Manager Neil Lennon stated his hope in September of concluding a deal and, two months on, has repeated his belief terms will be agreed upon.

"We are still in negotiations at the minute and I don't think we are too far away," said the Celtic boss. "There will be interest in them [Hooper and keeper Fraser Forster] but they are not going anywhere.

"Fraser has signed a new contract and hopefully we are close to getting Gary's signature. If there are offers coming in, they will have to pay what we feel the valuation is."

Hooper has been linked with a move to Liverpool in the English press but Lennon has played down the rumours.

"It is speculation," said Lennon. "It wouldn't surprise me if there are a number of clubs in for Gary because of the way he is but I would poo-poo that.

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