Celtic have opened discussions to bring Kelechi Iheanacho back to the club, with manager Martin O’Neill confirming that negotiations are underway as the Scottish champions look to strengthen their squad before the 2026/27 season, Boldsports report.
The Nigeria international became a free agent after his one-year contract expired this summer. Celtic chose not to activate the extension clause in his deal despite his strong contribution to the club’s league and cup-winning campaign.
Iheanacho proved decisive during the run-in, scoring crucial goals against Dundee, Hibernian and Motherwell, including a dramatic late penalty that secured a 3-2 victory over Motherwell. He also struck important extra-time goals in the Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren and the final against Dunfermline.
O’Neill wants the striker’s future settled quickly so he can complete a full pre-season, something injuries prevented last year.
”I’d like to do something with him,” O’Neill said. “If we can do something 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.
”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.”
The Celtic manager also revealed that the club remains in contact with Iheanacho’s representatives while the team continues its preparations in Portugal.
Although Celtic are eager to keep the former Leicester City and Sevilla forward, the 29-year-old has attracted interest from elsewhere in Europe. Turkish club Bursaspor is among the teams linked with a move following the expiration of his contract.
O’Neill also acknowledged that Celtic intend to recruit more attacking players before the transfer window closes. While Colombian forward Camilo Duran is close to joining the club, the manager believes retaining Iheanacho would be another significant boost to his squad.
With the new campaign approaching, Iheanacho is expected to decide his next destination soon. Celtic hope those talks end with the Super Eagles striker returning to Glasgow after playing a key role in last season’s domestic double success.
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