Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has confirmed the Scottish champions are negotiating to bring back Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho, who has been without a club since his contract with the club ended on 30 June.
Key takeaways
- Martin O’Neill says Celtic are in talks with Kelechi Iheanacho over a possible return.
- Iheanacho became a free agent after his deal expired on 30 June.
- Celtic previously held a club option for a further year, but it was not taken up.
- The striker played a major role in Celtic’s domestic double last season, including late goals from the bench.
- O’Neill wants the paperwork settled quickly so Iheanacho can get a full pre-season ahead of the new campaign.
- Turkish clubs have made offers, while an approach from Vasco da Gama reportedly did not advance.
Return talks after contract option lapses
Iheanacho originally rejoined Celtic on a free transfer last September after leaving Sevilla, with the forward signing a one-year contract that included an option for an additional season.
Celtic chose not to trigger that extension, meaning the 29-year-old was left without a club as the new season approached. O’Neill has now reopened discussions in an effort to secure fresh terms.
Impact in Celtic’s title-winning run
Last season, Iheanacho was central to Celtic’s domestic double, finding the net nine times from 24 appearances across all competitions.
His influence was especially noticeable in the closing stages, where he frequently provided a spark from the bench. He scored crucial late goals against Kilmarnock, Dundee, Hibernian and Motherwell, including a stoppage-time penalty in the victory over Motherwell that helped Celtic clinch the Scottish Premiership.
Why Celtic want a swift agreement
O’Neill said the club is aiming to complete a new deal quickly to ensure Iheanacho can start the summer preparations properly. He missed a full pre-season last year after sustaining injuries early in each of the two preceding campaigns.
“I’d like to do something with him. If we can get it sorted relatively quickly, at least he then gets started in pre-season, which is really important for him. It’s something he didn’t have last year,” O’Neill said.
“So that would be nice. I’m definitely pursuing that at this minute. He won’t be in Portugal with us, but we are talking to his agent now at this moment. I would like to have him.”
Interest from abroad as Iheanacho weighs options
During his time as a free agent, Turkish sides have reportedly made contract proposals to Iheanacho’s representatives. A reported move from Brazilian club Vasco da Gama did not progress.
Iheanacho has indicated that he would like to remain in Scotland, giving Celtic encouragement as negotiations continue.
