Former West Ham United striker Carlton Cole is considering an offer from Celtic amid interest from a club in Qatar.

The 31-year-old has been training with the Hoops recently and it is believed that the club's chief executive Peter Lawwell has already held talks with Cole and his agent.

However, the experienced striker is believed to be keen on a big-money move to the Middle East.

Meanwhile, Celtic first-team coach John Kennedy is still hopeful that Cole will sign with the Glasgow giants.

He said: "Carlton is fit enough but he hasn't had football training or any games this season.

"It was difficult to judge him properly. It's now been left with the manager, Peter Lawwell and Carlton's representatives.

"The manager spoke to him before he left and said he'd be in touch. Peter was to speak to his representatives to see what the deal was going to be.

"It obviously has to be something that is good for both parties if a deal is to be done."