Brendan Rodgers breaks silence on Tanner Tessmann to Celtic transfer amid Balikwisha and Bernardo moves

Boss Brendan Rodgers has responded to speculation Celtic are close to making a move for midfielder Tanner Tessmann.

The 22-year-old was a standout with Serie B side Venezia last season and looked set to join Inter this summer – before the Serie A champions pulled out of negotiations after failing to reach an agreement with the American’s representatives over a contract. That reportedly put clubs across Europe, including Scottish champions Brentford, Torino, Parma and Como, on alert.

With Southampton reportedly set to break the Scottish transfer record with a bid for Matt O’Riley, a new midfielder appears to be rapidly rising to the top of Celtic’s summer shopping list. And following the 4-0 rout at DC United, Rodgers has been put on the spot over a move for the American. Speaking in Washington, Rodgers told the media: “It’s gossip season and at the moment it’s just a rumour, there’s a lot of rumours going around at the club.”

Sport Record Celtic are also understood to be very interested in Royal Antwerp star Michel-Ange Balikwisha. Reports in Belgium now suggest a deal has been agreed. Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri claims Rodgers has held talks with the striker. It is also noted that Stade Rennais are interested in Balikwisha.

Midfielder Paulo Bernardo also appears to be closing in on a permanent return to Parkhead. Bernardo enjoyed a successful loan spell at Celtic Park last season before returning to Lisbon with an English Premier League and Scottish Cup winner’s medal.

Despite training with Benfica’s first team, the 22-year-old was not selected for the friendly against Almeria. A ball a decision has been made to leave the playmaker out as he is in “advanced negotiations” with Celtic.