Varga on verge of new Celtic deal

Stanislav Varga’s agent will meet with Celtic officials in the coming days to discuss a new one-year contract.

The former Slovakia international, who was signed by Martin O’Neill on a free transfer in 2003, looked set to leave the club when his deal expired this summer.

But the 33-year-old finished the season in the first team and, with John Hartson and Roy Keane’s departures leaving Hoops manager Gordon Strachan short of experience, he is set to win a further year.

Varga’s agent, Tony McGill, told PA Sport: “Stan wishes to stay with Celtic. We are continuing to discuss that with them.

“You can never be too confident about getting a new contract but he wants to stay there and I will be trying to grant that wish for him. I will speak with them again soon.”

McGill also represents Stilian Petrov and admits the wantaway midfielder is frustrated with the current impasse in his situation.

The Bulgaria international, who was 27 on Wednesday, handed in an official transfer request towards the end of last season but the club are determined to hold on to the player.

McGill added: “Obviously, Celtic want him to stay but Stilian wants to go, so there is a stand-off.

“I cannot get involved until they accept an offer. He has a contract and, until that changes, then he will be staying.

“It is not frustrating for me – this is part of my job. But it is frustrating for him and he has stated his reasons again for leaving.

“I understand Celtic’s position, but he has made his decision and wants to leave.”