Manchester United news: Celtic leading the race to sign James Wilson on loan in January

Manchester United are set to allow James Wilson to go out on loan in January, with Celtic the most likely destination, for the second half of the season. The Scottish champions have been given the go-ahead after the striker signed a new contract, keeping him at Old Trafford until at least the summer of 2019.

According to the Daily Mail, Ronny Deila was keen on signing the forward in the summer on loan for the entire season, but the move fell through since the forward had not yet committed his long-term future to the club. Wilson has found it difficult to force his way into Louis van Gaal's first-team plans, since his breakthrough into the senior squad during Ryan Giggs' tenure as the interim manager following the sacking of David Moyes.

Wilson, who is an England U21 international, made 13 appearances in the Premier League last season scoring one goal. Anthony Martial's arrival in the latter stages of the summer transfer window has seen him drop further down the pecking order, with the forward making just one appearance thus far, an eight-minute cameo during United's 3-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on 4 October.

The Dutch manager, who is open to sending the forward on loan, has indicated that the club will take a decision in December regarding the possibility of a temporary move. Van Gaal is keen for the academy prospect to continue his football development with regular first-team football.

There are plenty of clubs interested in signing the England youth international, but Celtic are said to be leading the race to sign the young striker. Red Devils defender Tyler Blackett is already with the Scottish club on a season-long loan, which will be a calming factor for Wilson in his new environment.