Hoffenheim swoop for Cudjoe

German high-fliers Hoffenheim are hoping to trump Scottish giants Celtic to sign the highly-rated Ghanaian midfielder Sampson Cudjoe.

The 20-year-old has arrived in the European country on Monday to have a two-week trial with the surprise Bundesliga pacesetters.

Cudjoe, who plays for local club Kessben, was being targeted by Celtic but they have so far been unable to reach an agreement for a trial in Scotland.

This prompted Hoffenheim to pounce, hoping to see the Ghanaian youngster before discussing terms with his Kumasi-based club.

I have arrived in Germany and even though the first team of Hoffenheim are on tour I will train with the second side before they arrive, Cudjoe told Ghanasoccernet.

Despite the trial stint in Germany, the midfielder whose style is similar to his compatriot Michael Essien says Celtic are still keen on him.

I am waiting to my club to tell me what to do but for the moment I am concentrating on impressing here at Hoffenheim in my trials, the enforcer said.

I know that Celtic want me to come but I have to wait for orders from my club in Ghana on what to do next. Thats all beyond me.

Cudjoe is contracted to Kessben and made a name for himself during a loan spell with Finnish side Honka FC.

Cudjoe remains contracted to Kessben but the club were unwilling to grant him a release letter for his trip' to Scotland.

However, they could be tempted to let him got if the Bhoys match their 400 000 valuation.