Walsall secure loan deal for Celtic defender Eoghan O'Connell

O'Connell, who featured for the Bhoys in the Champions League earlier this season, will train with the Saddlers today after agreeing a deal which keeps him at the Banks's Stadium for the remainder of the campaign.

The 21-year-old had a host of clubs in League One chasing his signature as well as Scottish outfit Kilmarnock.

And boss Whitney admits he is delighted the centre-back has opted to join Walsall.

"Eoghan fits the bill for what we have been looking for," the boss said.

"He had a lot of offers. He has had interest from League One clubs. Kilmarnock really wanted him. But he wants to come and play in England.

"All the references I have had have been really glowing. I like his size. The type of player he is. He is a defender first and foremost but he is also good on the ball.

"He has played in a back three and as a left side centre-back in a two for Celtic. Brendan Rodgers speaks highly of him.

"He only came out their team for more experienced players. He is a good kid and has got a really bright future."

Meanwhile, Walsall are continuing to negotiate a deal to see popular loanee Laird return to the club.

Laird, who is contracted to Scunthorpe, is not set to train with the Saddlers today.

But Whitney is hopeful of doing a deal ahead of Saturday's clash with League One leaders Sheffield United.

"The clubs are still talking and I've been talking to Scott - but he is not in the building," he said this morning.

"There are no guarantees at this stage. He wants to come back. We want to keep him. But there a lot of factors to making a signing.

"We are hopeful though we will get Lairdy in for the second half of the season."