Celtic are reportedly still in the hunt to sign free agent Lassana Diarra, despite alleged difficulties with his former club Lokomotiv Moscow.

The former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder was rumoured to be joining Celtic on a short-term deal until the end of the season, but his former employers are refusing to release the player's registration details, according to Goal.com.

Celtic are thought to still be keen to push through with the deal and will seek help from the Scottish League to resolve the paperwork issue.

Newcastle United have also been linked with the experienced midfielder, with reports of a potential hijacking of Celtic's pursuit of the 29-year-old.