HIGHLY-RATED Norwegian teenager Leo Hjelde has agreed a three-year deal at Celtic, subject to international approval.
The left-sided central defender, who has represented his nation at Under-16 level, has joined from Rosenborg and will team up with the reserve squad.
Leo, speaking to the club website, said: “It is a real honour to join Celtic, I had a number of options in front of me, but I know that Celtic is the right place for me.
“I have had the opportunity to speak to many people within the club, including the manager, Neil Lennon, and that has been fantastic.
“I know that the club will provide me with the best pathway for my future and I am really looking forward to the next few years of my career at such a fantastic club.”
SIGN OF THE TIMES…young keeper Tobi Oluwayemi pens three-year deal.
Hjelde is rated as one of the top emerging youngsters in his homeland and is following in the footsteps of his dad Jon who also turned out as a centre-half for Rosenborg and Nottingham Forest during his playing days.
The defender is the second exciting teen talent to arrive at Parkhead in 48 hours as he follows keeper Tobi Oluwayemi, who also joined on a three-year deal, subject to international clearance.
The 16-year-old prospect was on the books of the Spurs youth squad and has represented England at every international age group so far.
Neil Lennon has Scott Bain and Craig Gordon vying for the first team place with young Irishman Conor Hazard providing back-up. The 21-year-old has already had loan spells at Falkirk and Partick Thistle to gain first-team experience.
