Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho could be set for a return to Celtic after manager Martin O’Neill confirmed the club’s desire to secure a new deal for the Nigerian forward following his impressive performances.
Iheanacho joined Celtic on a one-year contract in September last year, with the club holding an option to extend the agreement for another 12 months. Since arriving at the Scottish club, the striker has played an important role in Celtic’s success, helping the team claim a dramatic Scottish Premiership title on the final day of the 2025–2026 season.
The Nigeria international scored nine goals across all competitions during the campaign, including a crucial contribution as Celtic sealed the league title with a late victory over Hearts.
O’Neill, who praised Iheanacho’s impact, said the club is working towards reaching an agreement with the striker as quickly as possible to allow him to have a full pre-season preparation.
“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.”
The Celtic manager explained that Iheanacho struggled to have a proper start to his Celtic career last season after suffering injuries shortly after joining the team.
“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 [Scottish] League Cup final as well,” O’Neill added.
The manager confirmed that retaining Iheanacho remains a priority, saying: “I would like to have him. It would be nice. I’m definitely pursuing that at this minute.”
Iheanacho also played a key role in Celtic’s Scottish Cup triumph, scoring in the final as the club defeated Dunfermline Athletic 3-1. He finished the season with five league goals in 13 appearances, despite starting only four matches.
Meanwhile, Celtic are also working on bringing back Marcelo Saracchi following his impressive loan spell from Boca Juniors. O’Neill’s efforts to keep key players highlight the club’s ambition to maintain its dominance ahead of the new season.
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