Celtic have made an approach for Stoke City defender Moritz Bauer, according to the Daily Mail.

Austrian international Bauer has been with Gary Rowett's side since January, having signed in the transfer window to aid their futile fight against relegation to the Championship.

With five international caps to his name, then-manager Paul Lambert hoped he could help stem the flow of goals that ultimately relegated them.

Bauer was first called up to the national side last year, although he played youth football for Switzerland before changing allegiances.

He's previously played for Grasshopper Zurich and Rubin Kazan and operates at right back.

He's appeared in the Champions League, albeit on one occasion, whilst plying his trade in Switzerland.

Bauer made 15 appearances for Stoke in the top flight, but has recently lost his first team place under Gary Rowett. He started the first two games of the season, but only came on as a sub against Hull City, as well as making a late appearance against Huddersfield in the League Cup on Tuesday.

The Verdict

I wouldn't imagine Stoke want this to go through, even though he's dropped out of the first team picture recently he has plenty to offer the side.

Gary Rowett knows he needs everyone fighting for the cause if they're going to do well and that include the likes of Bauer.

He would be a good addition to the Celtic ranks, but Stoke will surely resist this with everything they've got.