Brandon Mechele could be on Celtic radar again

Everton’s chances of signing Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk have received a huge boost as the Scottish champions are eyeing a £3-million move for his potential replacement Brandon Mechele, according to the Express.

Southampton have brought a quality defender in the form of Steven Caulker on loan from Queens Park Rangers but the Saints have been looking to add another player as well and had targeted a move for Celtic star Virgil van Dijk.

The Scottish champions are on the lookout for a new central defender – a signal that the Glasgow giants are ready to cash in on their biggest asset before the end of the month.

The 22-year-old helped Brugge cruise to the Belgian title last season.

And he also won praise for his performances in the Europa League as his side reached the quarter-finals – Mechele never missed a game.

However, Brugge face Manchester United in the Champions League play-off round and it is highly unlikely manager Michel Preud’homme would allow him to leave before those ties.

Mechele himself is racing to be fit for the games after suffering a knee injury in Brugge’s 0-0 league clash with Charleroi on Sunday.

Sunderland had a £6m offer turned down in January, but have continued to monitor Van Dijk’s situation.