Stanggassinger, who represents Shikabala, revealed that the 22-year-old playmaker was close to joining the Bhoys in the winter, but a deal was not completed as the latter ran out of time.

However, the German agent insists that a summer transfer is still on the cards.

"Celtic had watched Shikabala play a few times, but in the end the clock was the winner," Stanggassinger said in the Daily Express.

"The deal could not be done, but it remains possible for a move in the summer. It's certainly not dead."

The British newspaper stated that 42-time Scottish champions Celtic are ready to table £1million for the services of the Egypt international.

Shikabala has been subjected to a number of setbacks with the crumbling Zamalek recently, including some disputes with the Cairo club's fans.

The highly-rated midfielder spent two years with Greek side PAOK Saloniki before returning to Zamalek in 2006.

His dazzling skills and enthusiasm have often been curtailed by Zamalek's wretched condition in recent years.