Celtic are in active discussions to re-sign Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho ahead of the 2026/2027 campaign, manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed. Iheanacho joined the Scottish champions on a one-year deal last summer after leaving Sevilla, following the termination of his contract. He played a key role in Celtic's domestic double-winning season, scoring several crucial goals, including a late penalty in a 3-2 away win over Motherwell. Despite his contributions, the club did not activate the option to extend his contract before it expired this summer.
O'Neill revealed that negotiations are ongoing with the player's agent, stressing the importance of finalizing a deal quickly so Iheanacho can participate in pre-season training. "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 absence of pre-season integration last year is seen as a factor the club now aims to avoid if a new agreement is reached.
Since becoming a free agent, Iheanacho has drawn interest from other European clubs, including Turkey's Bursaspor. The Nigerian forward is eager to resolve his future ahead of the new season, aiming to maintain the form he showed during his debut campaign at Celtic Park. His performances, particularly in high-pressure matches, made him a fan favorite and a vital piece in the team's success. The club's delay in extending his contract initially raised concerns, but renewed talks suggest a potential return remains a priority for the management.
Celtic waited until after Iheanacho's contract expired to reopen talks, despite his decisive goals in the title run-in. That delay gives other clubs a window to poach a proven match-winner who already knows the league. If Iheanacho returns, it will be on fresh terms — not loyalty. His absence from Celtic's Portugal trip signals no deal is yet done.
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