A player previously on Celtic’s radar has sealed a permanent move elsewhere.

Andy Irving has completed a transfer to Sparta Prague, joining the Czech champions from West Ham for an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old had been heavily linked with Celtic over the past 12 or so months, with reports in the summer even claiming the Parkhead club had launched a bid for the midfielder.

But that move has now officially been ruled out, with Irving opting for a switch to the Czech Republic instead. He spent two-and-a-half years with the Hammers, making 18 first-team appearances and earning a senior Scotland cap during his time at the club.

Celtic were said to be admirers of Irving but with the player now signing with Sparta, those links have reached their end.

Celtic reportedly bid £2.2 million for the player in the summer; however, the side, now in the relegation zone, was looking for a fee of about £3.5 million, according to reports at the time. 

The Hoops remain active in the January market and continue to chase at least one striker, a defender and a winger, as Martin O’Neill pushes for reinforcements to help in a competitive title race.

Irving, meanwhile, takes the next step in his career on the continent.