Celtic defender Liam Scales is a transfer target for Anderlecht, according to a report.

The Republic of Ireland international is said to be attracting the attention of the Belgian giants.

Football Scotland states that scouts from the club have been sent to Scotland to watch the 25-year-old in recent weeks.

The centre-half, who was on loan at Aberdeen last season and could well have returned, has been the surprise package under Brendan Rodgers this campaign.

The left-sided defender has grabbed his chance with both hands after several injury issues in defence for the Scottish champions to deal with.

He has just 18 months left on his current deal having joined over two years ago under Ange Postecoglou.

And the report states that it will take a sizable offer in January for Celtic to consider letting him go, with Rodgers keen to keep ahold of the Irishman.

Scales has partnered Cameron Carter-Vickers at the back, with big-money signings Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke being kept out of the team.

Meanwhile, Celtic's players and staff will reportedly meet the Pope at the Vatican next week.

Following the team's Champions League clash against Lazio on Tuesday night in Rome, it's said the meeting will take place.

READ MORE: Celtic players 'to meet' the Pope upon visit to Rome for Lazio clash

The Scottish Sun claims the club has been granted a private audience with Pope Francis during their visit to the Italian capital.

The Hoops players and staff will get the chance to meet the head of the Catholic church in a one-on-one setting on Wednesday morning. Such encounters are usually only granted to heads of state and other world leaders.

Celtic usually fly home from European away ties on the night of the fixtures, however, they will now stay an additional night in Rome to visit the Vatican.