John Collins: 'Virgil van Dijk could seek Celtic exit'

Celtic assistant coach John Collins has admitted that Virgil van Dijk could leave the club if they fail to qualify for the Champions League group stage.

The 24-year-old defender has been linked with a move away from the Scottish champions, with Everton the latest team to reportedly show an interest.

While suggesting that the Dutchman's future at Celtic Park is unclear, Collins is hopeful that Van Dijk will remain a Celtic player.

"I am not surprised there is talk about Virgil. When you are a good player there is going to be speculation," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"It's another club mentioned today, I am sure there will be another next week, but he is a Celtic player. Would it be difficult to keep him if we don't make the Champions League? Probably, but hopefully we won't have to deal with that."

Celtic are back in Champions League qualifying action on Wednesday when they host Qarabag FK in the third round.