Celtic are on the lookout for a new striker this January and Stoke City's Scott Hogan is the latest name to be linked with a move to Parkhead.

That's according to TEAMtalk, who claim that the Ireland international could see his loan spell with the Potters from Aston Villa cut short in order to seal a temporary switch to Glasgow.

Whilst Hogan has proven himself over the years, particularly at Brentford, his time in Staffordshire has been disappointing and our graphic shows that Celtic would be taking a real risk in bringing him in.

Firstly, you have to say that finding a number nine has to be a priority for Neil Lennon, even though they are unlikely to sign someone who is an upgrade on Odsonne Edouard.

Nevertheless, their lack of options behind the Frenchman is alarming, with Leigh Griffiths not back to his best and there is no other senior option for Lennon.

With the Hoops locked in a fierce battle for the title, along with reaching the Europa League last 32, they could have a lot of important games to play as the campaign progresses.

And, the fact that Hogan couldn't force his way into a Stoke City side that are in danger of relegation to League One should be a major concern to the Scottish champions.

In fairness to Hogan, scoring three goals this season isn't as bad as it sounds when you look at the minutes played and that suggests he could score goals in Scotland against the weaker opposition as Celtic will always create chances.

However, he hasn't done enough in the games he has played to warrant an extended run in the XI and that suggests his overall contribution isn't up to the required standard for a club like the treble winners.

They aren't losing many points to the weaker teams, and the need for a striker has been highlighted in Europe and against their bitter rivals Rangers.

So, the challenge for Lennon is to find a striker, like Edouard, who can deliver in the big games when it really matters.

The harsh reality is that Hogan has done nothing to suggest he is capable of making a difference at such a level and it would be an underwhelming addition for Celtic.

From Stoke's perspective though, they would love for a club to take Hogan off their hands as they look to reduce their wage bill, so they will be hoping this does happen.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.