Burnley close in on Celtic striker

Burnley are reportedly close to agreeing a deal with Celtic for striker Anthony Stokes.

Clarets boss Sean Dyche, whose side was relegated from the Premier League back in May, is understood to be a long-term admirer of the 27-year-old Republic of Ireland international.

Stokes, who joined Scottish Premiership champions Celtic from Hibernian back in 2010, scored eight goals in 38 appearances in all competitions for Ronny Deila’s side last season.

Burnley are targeting Stokes to help the club achieve an instant return to the English top flight at the first time of asking after selling last year’s top goalscorer Danny Ings to Liverpool.