CELTIC's interest in Dundee United goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist is said to have intensified ahead of a summer move, according to a report. 

Reports say that the champions are eying up the Swiss stopper as a replacement for Vasilis Barkas, who has joined FC Utrecht on loan.

The 30-year-old's contract expires in the coming weeks, with his departure from Tannadice imminent. 

As well as Celtic holding an interest, Preston and Blackpool are two sides south of the border who remain keen. 

But the Daily Record claim that Celtic have stepped up their bid to land the United keeper. 

The say that Parkhead chiefs have made contact with Siegrist's representation.

It is believed that the former Aston Villa trainee would be brought in as competition to Scott Bain as a back-up to Joe Hart, who is firmly the No.1.

Siegrist has been at Tannadice for four seasons, impressing in each of them.