Celtic have reportedly made an offer to sign Iraqi midfielder Hammam [Humam] Tariq from Al Ahli, according to Iraqi-based media outlets.

The 18-year-old moved to Al Ahli this year, but has not played a single game for the United Arab Emirates side. However, new manager Cosmin Olăroiu wants to run the rule over the youngster during the club’s pre-season tour in Germany before making a decision on his future.

Tariq is considered once of the most promising talents in the Middle East and was a key player for the Iraqi Under-19 national team that sealed qualification to the 2013 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, and helped Iraq reach the final of the 2012 AFC Under-19 championship.

He has been linked with several clubs over the past year including Lille OSC, Malmö FF and Feyenoord, but it looks like Celtic are in pole position to sign the attacking midfielder with Champions League football a major factor also.

Tariq would not be the first Iraqi to play for Celtic if he signs for the Scottish champions, as Mahdi Saleh went on trial at Celtic Park in 1953 and played for Celtic’s reserve side while studying to be a Naval Architect at Glasgow Technical College.

Celtic, who are currently on their Austrian pre-season tour, were unavailable for comment.