Scottish Premiership champions Celtic are set to join Sheffield United and Stoke City in the race to sign Phil Jagielka this summer, according to reports from the Scottish Sun.

The 36-year-old was recently let go by Everton following the expiry of his contract at Goodison Park, putting an end to his 12-year stay at the Merseyside club.

The central defender made over 380 appearances for the Toffees since joining from Sheffield United in 2007, and now a potential return to Bramall Lane could be on the cards for the former England international.

The Daily Mail claims that both the Blades and Championship side Stoke City are interested in signing the experienced pro, would be available to sign on a free transfer in the summer.

But now, the Scottish Sun claims that Celtic have entered the race to sign the defender, having failed to lure him to Celtic Park in January.

A return to Sheffield United would probably be the most preferred destination for Jagielka, having came through the ranks at Bramall Lane, making over 280 appearances for the Yorkshire club before leaving for Everton.

But the prospect of helping Celtic retain the SPFL title could be a pulling point for the defender, who is approaching the latter stages of his career.

The Verdict

Jagielka is certainly a player in demand this summer, and it will be interesting to see who he signs for.

I think a one-year deal at Sheffield United is written in the stars for the defender, as he would love to pull on a United shirt in the Premier League once again.

But if he wants to move to a big club like Celtic and win trophies in the final years of his playing career, many wouldn't begrudge him of doing so.

I don't think Stoke have a chance of signing him now.