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Celtic are set to open contract talks with Kristoffer Ajer in a bid to tie down one of the club’s the top talents.

The Norwegian defender is one of five "untouchables" Neil Lennon has insisted is not for sale.

Now Celtic are looking to diminish the disappointment of their Champions League failure by getting one of their rising stars on a longer-term deal.

The 21-year-old was linked with AC Milan earlier this month and Lennon has made it clear he wants to keep him at Parkhead.

Ajer, who was also tentatively linked with former boss Brendan Rodgers at Leicester City, signed a four-year deal last summer.

But he will be offered another enhanced contract to fend off interest and to keep him happy.

Ajer has blossomed into one of Celtic’s top defenders and has also become a regular in the Norwegian national side.

(Image: SNS)

Celtic are aware of the growing interest in Ajer but see him as a long-term pillar in their side, while they are aware there could be more interest with the European transfer windows not set to close until the end of the month.

Ajer came in from IK Start in 2016 by former boss Ronny Deila.

There also continues to be interest in fellow defender Jozo Simunovic.

French side Lille are keen on the centre half although he is currently still fighting to get back to full fitness after a recent injury in the first game against Cluj.

Lennon has also made it clear that he wants to keep the Croat, who has just two years left on his deal.

He is also likely to be offered a new contract if he is still at Celtic beyond the window.