Kelechi Iheanacho’s contract dilemma? Ex-Blackburn Rovers star offers Celtic clear solution

Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew has provided an insight into the contract situation facing Kelechi Iheanacho and his old club, Soccernet.ng reports.

The retired Scotland international believes the Scottish champions should keep Iheanacho and add more strikers to the squad rather than allow the Nigerian forward to leave this summer.

The future of Iheanacho remains one of the major talking points at Celtic Park as his current contract is due to expire on June 30. Celtic still have the option to extend the deal by another 12 months, but the club has not yet announced whether it will activate that clause.

Reports from Scotland suggest Celtic would prefer to reach a fresh agreement with the player instead of automatically triggering the extension. Meanwhile, Iheanacho has repeatedly made it clear that he is happy in Glasgow and wants to remain at the club for the 2026-27 campaign.

The uncertainty has attracted interest from elsewhere. Brazilian Serie A side Vasco da Gama were recently linked with the former Super Eagles striker, although reports claimed the move did not progress. Despite the speculation, former players and supporters continue to push for Celtic to secure his future.

Mulgrew tells Celtic to keep Iheanacho and add more firepower

Mulgrew, who previously played for both Celtic and Blackburn Rovers, believes the club's biggest need ahead of another Scottish Premiership title defence is strengthening the attack.

Speaking about the striker situation, the former Scotland international said, per the Daily Record:

“I mean there's no doubt about it, for a few seasons now there's been a striker needed. Daizen Maeda stepped up at the end of the season, but we need a striker.

“Celtic need to bring a striker in, two, maybe three. Because in the actual squad, I don't know if Kelechi Iheanacho has triggered his contract or his extension yet. That'll be something I would be looking to keep and then bring another couple.”

Iheanacho's case has become particularly interesting because of the impact he made despite dealing with fitness concerns and a hamstring problem during parts of last season.

The Nigerian forward joined Celtic on a free transfer in September 2025 and quickly won over supporters with his ability to change matches from the bench.

His importance was on display in several crucial moments. He scored a late penalty against Motherwell, delivered important goals in cup competitions and consistently produced when Celtic needed inspiration.

Across all competitions, Iheanacho scored nine goals in 27 appearances, averaging a goal every 124 minutes. In the Scottish Premiership, he netted five times in 13 appearances and played a role in Celtic's final-day 3-1 victory over Hearts as they secured the league title.

His Scottish Cup performances were even more decisive. Iheanacho scored twice in the semi-final against St Mirren before coming off the bench to score Celtic's third goal in a 3-1 final victory over Dunfermline Athletic, helping the club complete a domestic double.

He also featured seven times in the UEFA Europa League, contributing a goal and earning praise for his hold-up play and link-up work, while adding an assist in the Scottish League Cup.

With his contract deadline approaching and preparations for the new season already underway, Celtic must now decide whether to reward one of their most effective impact players with a new deal. If Mulgrew's advice is followed, Iheanacho will remain in Glasgow as part of a strengthened attacking unit rather than becoming another summer departure.