Celtic head coach Martin O’Neill has provided an update on the future of Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian striker's future has been uncertain since the end of last season, with questions over whether he would remain at Celtic beyond his first campaign following his free transfer from Sevilla last summer.
Despite an injury-hit season, Iheanacho finished strongly, scoring important goals and playing a key role as Celtic completed a domestic league and cup double and his impressive performances towards the end of the campaign put him back in contention for a new contract.
However, there were concerns over Iheanacho’s fitness after he missed most of pre-season and spent a lengthy period on the sidelines through injury while Celtic have also been linked with several attacking targets this summer, raising further doubts about his future at the club.
The 29-year-old officially became a free agent after his contract expired on June 30 and has since been linked with moves to Brazilian side Vasco da Gama and Turkish club Bursaspor.
Iheanacho: O’Neill confirms possibility of new deal for Super Eagles forward
Despite already becoming a free agent, Celtic are still hopeful of bringing Iheanacho back to Celtic Park.
Speaking in an interview, O’Neill confirmed that discussions are ongoing as the Scottish champions attempt to reach an agreement with the Super Eagles forward before the start of the new season.
“I’d like to do something with him. That's the point. Of course, if we can do something relatively quickly, at least he then gets started in pre-season, which is really important for him”, the Celtic manager said via Daily Record.
“It’s something he didn't have last year. After about three minutes, he was injured against Sturm Graz and he then hurt himself in the League Cup Final as well.
“So that would be nice. I'm definitely pursuing that at this minute.”
O’Neill's comments suggest Celtic remain optimistic about agreeing fresh terms with Iheanacho, who could now return for a second season at the club if negotiations are successful.
Should both parties reach an agreement, the former Leicester City forward will be available for pre-season, which begins on July 14 with a friendly against Portuguese heavyweights Sporting CP.
