Celtic aim to fend off Chelsea interest by offering star lucrative new contract

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Craig Gordon has been in discussion with Celtic chiefs about extending his current contract

The 34-year-old keeper saw a big-money move to Chelsea knocked back by the Hoops last month.

Parkhead chiefs have since opened talks with Gordon’s representatives to extend his current contract. That is due to expire in the summer, although Celtic have the option of trigger an extension until 2018.

The Scotland international has been offered improved terms which could see him stay on for three-and-a-half seasons, with various options built into the deal.

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Brendan Rodgers has insisted he doesn't want to sell Craig Gordon

Both parties are hopeful a deal can be struck quickly.

Manager Brendan Rodgers has already told his board he wants Gordon to stay long-term, which was why he knocked back two offers for him from Chelsea. It is a remarkable turnaround for Gordon, who was dropped earlier in the season and temporarily replaced by Dorus de Vries because Rodgers wanted him to be better with the ball at his feet.

The Scot could have more than doubled his money by returning to the Premier League, although he was well aware he would likely have struggled for game time as back-up to Chelsea No 1 Thibaut Courtois.

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With Gordon having spent two years out of the game through injury after he left Sunderland in 2012, he is keen to prolong his career for as long as he can and win more trophies.

The former Hearts shot-stopper is also desperate to nail down the No 1 spot with Scotland and get into the national team’s Hall of Fame. He is currently on 45 caps.

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