Celtic face Jeremie Frimpong transfer wait but Leverkusen's FFP gamble tees up tantalising windfall

Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly attempting to get RID of Jeremie Frimpong's release clause - which could scupper a move to Manchester United and a Celtic payday.

The full-back has been a key figure in helping Xabi Alonso's unbeaten side claim an historic first German title and reports in Germany claim that United had held concrete talks with the Netherlands international with a view to triggering his €40million (£34million) release clause this summer. The Hoops negotiated a sell-on fee believed to be worth 30 per cent of the profit on his next sale when he left the Scottish Premiership - see a hefty cash injection arrive at Celtic Park this summer.

However, reports in Germany suggest that Leverkusen are looking to scare off Old Trafford chiefs this summer - and make Celtic wait. BILD state the German champions are "doing all they can to persuade Frimpong to sign a new deal" that would "include a higher release clause or remove it completely."

It is claimed that Leverkusen want to demand a higher fee than his current release clause this summer. This will look to warn off potential buyers at the end of the campaign.

It is a move that is designed to scare off the Premier League giants amid increase Financial Fair Play scrutiny. United have announced a reduced £5.6million pre-tax loss over the first six months of the season, easing concerns around their compliance (FFP) rules in March.

And with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s $1.64bn deal to buy a minority stake in the Old Trafford club set to follow a cash injection it may not be enough to deter the Red Devils. Celtic will certainly hope to see their former star make a big money move.