TALKS between Celtic and Steven Fletcher have broken down, according to a report.

PLZ Soccer claim that the former Scotland international is now likely to join Stoke City after a deal could not be struck at Parkhead.

Fletcher left Sheffield Wednesday this summer and is currently on the lookout for a new club after becoming a free agent.

Neil Lennon's side were favourites to gain his signature, but it now appears that he may be staying in England.

Speaking previously about the former Hibs man, Lennon said: "He is a good player. I am not going to confirm or deny that, I don’t want to talk about individuals.

“We have been linked with a lot of strikers, midfield players, centre halves. There are one or two areas we want to add to because we have let a few players go. We let seven or eight go and we have only added (Vasilis) Barkas to the squad so I think it’s important we bring some quality in, in the areas we are looking for.

“I think it’s the most important position on the pitch. We have had a few injuries and a few absentees in that department so if there is a quality one available and we think it’s the right thing to do, we will pursue it.

“We will take a view on the squad later on down the line.”