Rangers' target Loovens close to making a Celtic switch

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Loovens on the move: Cardiff defender Glenn Loovens is set for a transfer to Celtic

Loovens, 24, had been a target for the Bhoys' Old Firm rivals this summer.

However, it is understood the Dutchman is now set to clinch a move to the defending Scottish Premier League champions.

The fee is believed to be in the region of £2million to £2.5million and, provided Celtic close the deal, the signing would come as a blow to Rangers.

With Gers looking to sign a replacement for Carlos Cuellar, following his £7.8million move to Aston Villa, the club were expected to step up their bid for former Feyenoord player Loovens.

Celtic's interest only emerged recently, but the addition of the Dutchman would give Gordon Strachan extra strength in defence - already a strong point of the champions' team.

Loovens could be earmarked for a central role alongside captain Stephen McManus, with Gary Caldwell moving out to right-back.

Celtic have already signed Georgios Samaras from Manchester City, Marc Crosas from Barcelona and Paddy McCourt from Derry City this summer.

After pipping Rangers to last season's SPL title, Strachan's side are chasing a fourth consecutive SPL title and, unlike their Glasgow rivals, they can look forward to a Champions League campaign.

Loovens began his professional career at Feyenoord and moved to Cardiff in 2005 - initially on loan before making the deal permanent a year later for a reported fee of £250,000 - and he helped them reach last season's FA Cup final.