Celtic assistant manager John Collins is hoping that his side can keep hold of in-demand centre-back Virgil van Dijk over the summer transfer window.

Van Dijk has been linked with a number of sides over the course of the season, not least Arsene Wenger's Arsenal.




Celtic were successful in keeping hold of Van Dijk in the winter transfer window and Collins is desperate for them to repeat the trick this summer, keeping the Dutch defender at Celtic Park.

He told the BBC: "Virgil's got two years to go [on his contract]. I think he is an outstanding player and it's a pleasure for me to coach him.


"I'm hoping and praying we can keep him for another year", the assistant added.

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Collins is in no doubt that Van Dijk's game is on a upward curve and he feels that the 23-year-old can eventually play at the very highest level, forcing his way into the side at one of the elite clubs in Europe.

"He is young, he is working at his weaknesses, he's got height, he's good in the air, he's got pace, he's a fantastic passer of the ball and he carries the ball well.

"I think he has the talent to play for any team. There's no doubt for me he can play at the top level.

"I think there would be many clubs out there who would love to have him", Collins added.

Van Dijk cost just £2.6m for Celtic to snap up from Dutch Eredivisie outfit FC Groningen in 2013; the Dutchman penned a four-year contract with the Scottish champions.

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