John Hartson has detailed what he believes to be an "ideal situation" for Celtic youngster Rocco Vata amid reports linking with a move away from the club.

The 18-year-old scored his first goal for the Hoops during the recent 5-0 win over Buckie Thistle and the Scottish champions have reportedly re-opened talks with the forward over a new deal.

Vata's current contract is set to expire in the summer and Hartson feels the Parkhead side should be doing all they can to keep the player.

Speaking to Go Radio, he said: "You don’t want to take a risk on letting a really good potential player go at 18.

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"It would absolutely be considered as a terrible decision if Rocco Vata was to go on and become a first-team player elsewhere and be fantastic. 

“I think the ideal scenario, what Brendan is saying there, is that he is a really good young player.

"He is one of those he thinks he can improve by working with him on the training ground, so I think the ideal situation for Rocco Vata is to go on loan. Go on loan to a club where you can play and improve. 

“Then you have an opportunity to come back to Celtic, if you have really, really done well and give yourself an opportunity that you can compete in the Celtic team.

"That would be the ideal scenario for Rocco Vata."