Celtic & Rangers are hoping to protect their young stars with the introduction of professional contracts at the age of 14, according to a report.

The Press and Journal claims Scottish clubs are keen to investigate the possibility of lowering the age at which academy products can sign professional terms.

The current law states that teenagers are unable to turn professional until they're aged 16.

However, this new report states that Scotland's top clubs are looking to lower that to 14 in an effort to nurture and keep more top talents in the Premiership.

Numerous Premier League teams and top Championship sides south of the border have increased their focus on Scotland's best young players in recent years. 

This is in relation to Brexit, with new regulations making it harder to recruit foreign players under 18.

Under the current set-up in Scotland, clubs are only entitled to training compensation if players are snapped up before they turn 16.

So, the theory is that if clubs are able to get their best young players signed up to professional terms from the age of 14, then transfer fees will be required from any interested parties.

Most Scottish teams have seen England's biggest teams come calling for some of their best prospects, not least Billy Gilmour at Rangers, Ben Doak at Celtic, Liam Smith at Kilmarnock and Lewis Pirie at Aberdeen.

It is believed Scotland’s top clubs have asked the Scottish FA to look at methods to prevent young talent leaving the country on the cheap.

A timescale for the possible project has not been disclosed at this time.

READ MORE: Brendan Rodgers facing SFA punishment after Celtic boss slams John Beaton

Meanwhile, Brendan Rodgers could face punishment from the SFA following his comments about officiating during Celtic's loss at Hearts.

The Hoops manager unleashed a stinging rant about Don Robertson and, in particular, John Beaton on VAR following the 2-0 win for the hosts at Tynecastle.