New Celtic signing Leo Hjelde says it is 'a real honour' to sign for the Glasgow giants.
The Scottish Premiership champions announced today that they have agreed terms with the highly-rated teenage defender who moves from Rosenborg.
Hjelde has agreed a three-year contract to join the Hoops, subject to international approval.
Initially, the plan is for Leo to join the Reserve team squad, with a view to working towards the first-team.
Hjelde, who turned 16 this summer, is a highly-rated left-sided centre-back and has represented his country at Under-16 level.
His father Jon was also a centre-back and during his career played with both Rosenborg and Nottingham Forest.
📝 Talented Norwegian defender, Leo Hjelde, has agreed a three-year contract to join #CelticFC, subject to international approval. #WelcomeLeo! 🇳🇴
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) July 29, 2019
Hjelde was impressed after visiting the club and meeting manager Neil Lennon.
"It is a real honour to join Celtic, I had a number of options in front of me, but I know that Celtic is the right place for me," said Hjelde.
"I have had the opportunity to speak to many people within the club, including the manager, Neil Lennon, and that has been fantastic.
"I know that the club will provide me with the best pathway for my future and I am really looking forward to the next few years of my career at such a fantastic club."
Celtic on the verge of progressing in the Champions League
Lennon is in Estonia with his squad ahead of the second leg of their Champions League second round qualifier on Tuesday.
Celtic lead Kalju 5-0 from the first leg but their manager wants to earn another victory before they commence their domestic campaign this weekend.
"We are in a really strong position but it's a game we want to win," said Lennon.
"We'll look to change a few players but we are here to win the tie. The league starts on Saturday as well so we want to keep that momentum going."
That match at the Lilleküla Stadium kicks off at 6.00 pm Irish time.
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