Former Rangers full-back Alan Hutton believes that Celtic's Jonny Hayes could be open to leaving the Scottish champions as several Championship clubs monitor the player.

The versatile left-footer is out of contract at Parkhead in the summer and TEAMtalk have suggested that Stoke City are one of four sides that are keen on doing a deal for the 32-year-old.

And, speaking to Football Insider, Hutton, who has played in England and north of the border, revealed that the prospect of testing himself in a different league will appeal to Hayes.

"It’s been difficult for him as in he’s not played week in, week out but ultimately when he’s been needed he’s been the go-to man. Neil Lennon seems to favour him when he needs to make a change or stuff.

"Maybe he would think of going down south, his last two, three-year contract, it would be nice to go down south and experience something different. He works hard, every time he comes in he’s up and down, he looks fit. It’s going to be difficult. I think he’s probably torn between his love for Celtic and a move down south."

Cardiff, Burnley and Huddersfield are also said to be keen on Hayes.

The verdict

As Hutton says, this is going to be a very big decision for Hayes and it will be interesting to see what he does.

Clearly, he has a lot of love for Celtic, so if a new contract is put on the table then you would imagine it's going to be very tough for him to turn it down.

However, if a suitable offer doesn't come in then a fresh challenge will appeal and Michael O'Neill would hope Stoke are a potentially attractive option to the player.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.