The 27-year-old midfielder was quoted as saying that he preferred a move to Spain rather than Scotland.

But the Italian outfit believe that Nakamura will snub Deportivo La Coruna and Atletico Madrid to join Celtic.

Reggina press officer Daniele Rindone told the Press Association: “We are discussing a price between £2m and £2.75m and we are close to agreeing a fee.

“Our president Lillo Foti will speak with their chief executive (Peter Lawwell) and it is possible that they will come to an agreement for the player to join Celtic.

“There are also two Spanish clubs interested in signing the player - Deportivo La Coruna and Atletico Madrid – but I would say Celtic are in first place to sign him.

“We have a good working relationship with them and they would be our choice and they also appear to be the first choice of Shunsuke Nakamura.

“It is possible now that it will go through quite quickly.”

Nakamura appeared set to turn down Celtic in favour of a move to the Primera Liga.

He was quoted as saying: “It would be fun to play in Spain as well after playing in Italy.

“I feel it’s about time to make a switch after playing for the same club for three seasons.

“I must be careful to choose the team, because it is important for me whether I can play in the games or not.”

Celtic have taken former Portsmouth and West Ham defender Sebastien Schemmel on a week’s trial.

The 30-year-old Frenchman has travelled with the rest of the squad to their training camp at Bisham Abbey.

He spent 18 months at Portsmouth but a falling out with then manager Harry Redknapp limited his chances.

He is a former France Under-21 international and is well known by Strachan from their time in England.

The Scot is also hoping the club can come to an agreement with Southampton over goalkeeper Antti Niemi, who wants to join up again with his former boss in Scotland.