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Belgium boss Marc Wilmots has been getting excited over the 'world class' potential of Manchester City defender Jason Denayer.

It has been a breakthrough year for the 19-year-old centre-back. Having caught the eye on the US tour last summer, Denayer has spent this campaign with Celtic.

Ronny Deila's team have won a domestic double and enjoyed an entertaining run in the Europa League, and the Belgian defender has been central to their cause.

Denayer was voted PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year for his performances, and earned his first international appearance in March.

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With Vincent Kompany suspended for Belgium's June qualifier, Denayer has impressed Wilmots.

"I went to Milan to see him play for Celtic against Inter Milan," he said. "After 30 minutes, Celtic were down to ten men and then I saw what a player he is. He took command and remained calm and controlled his defence.

"First and foremost, he defends. He's also fast and his positional sense is superb. I'm not saying he is in pole position to start against Wales in Cardiff in June because the match is still over a month away.

"But what I will say is that Jason has enormous potential. If he continues to evolve at the rate he is progressing, he can be world class."

As Denayer heads back to City this summer, another Blues centre-back could be heading in the opposite direction.

Bhoys boss Deila admitted last week that he had held talks with Dedryck Boyata to try to convince the 24-year-old to join the Scottish Premier League champions.