"Celtic have been told by NASL commissioner Bill Paterson that operating a franchise in the North American league could help to bring top American players to Celtic Park. The NASL will expand to 20 teams by 2018. " http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34632349 Celtic are exploring the possibility of starting a franchise club in the United States. The Scottish champions are also looking into similar opportunities in Asia as they attempt to grow their global brand. Initial talks have already taken place between representatives of the club and the North American Soccer League, which is the second tier league in the US. The NASL is hoping to expand from its current 11 teams to 20 teams by 2018. Celtic regularly travel across the Atlantic to play pre-season friendly matches. English Premier League club Manchester City took on the franchise for Major League Soccer side New York City in 2013.
