Hinkel hints at Celtic exit, duo off to Swindon

Andreas Hinkel has claimed he has been told to consider any offers clubs make for him during the current transfer window amid continuing rumours the player will return to Germany this summer.

The 28-year-old right-back, who has been capped 21 times by Germany, joined Celtic from Sevilla for around £2million in January 2008. Hinkel has proved to be a steady performer but with new boss Neil Lennon building his own team and just a year to run on his contract, it appears Celtic hope to recoup some of his transfer fee rather than let him walk away next summer.

Hinkel told the Scottish Sun: "The manager has spoken to me about that. I know I have just one more year and if there is an offer or something else I have to think about it, but so far there is nothing. At the moment there is no contact from other clubs and because of that I am still here. We will see at the end of August, that's the honest answer."

The comments by Hinkel are another indication of a revolution, of sorts, apparently happening at Celtic Park. Neil Lennon may not be the most experienced manager in the world, but he appears to be getting backing from the board to make the changes he wants. If that is the case, things may start looking brighter very quickly.

Other press reports, Swindon are on the verge of signing, or perhaps have already signed, Celtic pair Simon Ferry and Paul Caddis. Ferry spent time on loan with Swindon last season while an attempt was made to sign Caddis in January.

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