Norwich City and Middlesbrough are weighing up late moves to sign Bolton Wanderers midfielder Luca Connell, according to reports from The Sun.

The 18-year-old was a diamond in the rubble for Bolton last season, putting in impressive displays for Phil Parkinson's side in a total of 12 appearances last season.

The young midfielder produced an assist for Mark Beevers against Bristol City in his first start for the club, but following their relegation to League One and with their off-field problems increasing, it seems almost inevitable that Connell will depart Bolton this summer.

Celtic have reportedly opened talks over a deal to land the Republic of Ireland youngster, with the midfielder also revealing that it would be "an honour" to play for the SPFL champions.

But according to The Sun, Norwich and Middlesbrough could be about to make last-ditch moves to sign the 18-year-old, as the race for his signature hots up.

Norwich utilised plenty of young players in the Championship last season, such as Max Aarons, Ben Godfrey and Jamal Lewis, and Canaries sporting director Stuart Webber is believed to be a long-term admirer of Connell.

They face competition from Middlesbrough, whose assistant manager, Robbie Keane, is aware of Connell's potential after breaking into the Ireland international squad.

The Verdict

This is a transfer story that is likely to go right down to the wire, but I can't see Connell playing for anywhere other than Celtic next season.

He looks to have his heart set on a move to Parkhead, and the wheels have seemingly already started turning having opened talks with the youngster.

It will be a blow for Boro if they miss out on his signature, but there are plenty of other talented youngsters out there for them to sign.