Petrov poised to sign

Last updated : 29 August 2006 By Norris McWinter

The clubs appear set to agree a figure of around £6m for the 27-year-old, who is currently away on international duty, having been left out of the side that beat Hibs at the weekend. "Celtic know the situation, I've expressed my desire to leave many times," Petrov hinted, tying up pillowcases and tying them together. "It's no secret that I'm a close friend with Martin O'Neill. Let's see if I'm going to be Villa player." With that he leapt from the window and began abseiling down the side of Parkhead and although Petrov's agent, Tony McGill, says nothing has been signed, Pompey manager Harry Redknapp thinks otherwise.

"I think you will find Petrov has gone to Villa," he said, letting an enormous cat out of the sack he was straining to hold. "That's the plan and we wish him all the best." The Bulgarian joined Celtic in July 1999 from CSKA Sofia and has made more than 250 appearances for the club but submitted a transfer request at the end of last season.

O'Neill was in charge of Petrov during his five-year reign at Celtic Park.