Celtic hope to sign Manchester United star Mikael Silvestre on loan

Aug 17 2008 By Mark Guidi And Gordon Waddell

CELTIC have made an audacious move to land Manchester United star Mikael Silvestre on loan.

MailSport can reveal the Hoops made contact with the European champs 48 hours ago about the availability of the French left-back.

Man United gaffer Sir Alex Ferguson is now considering a request to let Silvestre speak with the Parkhead side.

Celtic will find out in the next couple of days if their move has been successful but they know they stand only a slim chance of landing the defender.

However, they feel the bold approach would be worth it if it pays off. Hoops manager Gordon Strachan has been hunting all summer for a left-back and has been linked with several possible candidates down south and on the continent.

Frenchman Silvestre has made more than 360 appearances for United since signing in 1999 but is not guaranteed a starting slot in Ferguson's side.

That has alerted a host of top clubs who have been keen to offer the 40- times capped star the match time he desires.

Roma and Bordeaux were among the sides reported to be chasing him this summer.

But the 31-year-old will not leave United on a permanent move.

He is in his testimonial season at Old Trafford and will be awarded a lucrative benefit game next year as one of their longest-serving stars.