Martin O'Neill is believed to have earmarked at least two potential new signings and will move swiftly to bring them to Parkhead, should Celtic clear the final hurdle to a place in the Champions League proper against Basle in Switzerland next week.

Berger is among his targets and would need little persuading to head north after becoming a peripheral figure in Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier ' s plans since recovering from a long-term knee injury last season.

Agents were alerted to Berger's availability at the end of last season and encouraged to try and find possible bidders for the free- scoring midfielder.

An initial £5million asking price proved a stumbling block, particularly after such a lengthy absence with a problem that required surgery by renowned Colorado knee specialist Richard Steadman. Berger's valuation has since dropped, and it is thought Liverpool would now accept nearer £2m to end his six-year stay on Merseyside.

Though Celtic's finances are stretched to the limit, O'Neill is believed to have made discreet enquiries about Berger's future and is ready to pursue his interest before the transfer window closes at the end of this month.

The Celtic manager is determined to avoid any repeat of last season's agonising near-miss i n the Champions' League when his side were denied a lucrative passage into the second phase by a narrow margin.

If they successfully defend a 3-1 first-leg lead against the Swiss champions, he will waste no time using his modest transfer funds to reinforce his squad ahead of this season's opening group games.