Marcelo Saracchi has emerged as a target for Estudiantes de La Plata, although the defender’s long-awaited return to Celtic remains firmly on the agenda.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill recently confirmed the club are working to bring both Saracchi and Kelechi Iheanacho back to Glasgow, but negotiations for the pair are yet to reach a breakthrough.
Interest in Saracchi is growing elsewhere, with Argentine side Estudiantes now weighing up a move.
Celtic are working on deal to sign Boca Juniors left-back Marcelo Saracchi on a permanent deal.
The Uruguayan spent last season on loan with the Scottish champions, but there was no buy-option included in the deal.
Boca are believed to be open to selling Saracchi this summer. pic.twitter.com/EIDNxlj96y
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) July 8, 2026
According to Argentine journalist Augusto Cesar, the club are closely following the Boca Juniors full-back and are exploring the possibility of signing him.
Any transfer, however, is complicated by Estudiantes’ current registration restrictions.
The club’s financial issues stem from a failed $120 million mixed-capital investment brokered last season by president Juan Sebastian Veron alongside American billionaire Foster Gillett.
The proposed funding paved the way for big-money moves involving Cristian Medina from Boca Juniors and Facundo Farias from Inter Miami before the investment collapsed, leaving Estudiantes unable to meet significant financial commitments.
That dispute resulted in the club receiving a conditional three-window transfer registration ban, which will remain in place until their issues with Inter Miami are resolved.
As things stand, even if Estudiantes were to strike an agreement with Boca for Saracchi, they would be unable to register the Uruguay international until the sanction is lifted.
Celtic also appear to have an advantage in the race, with reports indicating Saracchi’s preference is to return to European football rather than remain in Argentina.
Speaking after Celtic’s 1-1 draw against Shelbourne on Wednesday, O’Neill revealed discussions with the player’s agent remain active.
He said: “I’d like to take him back if it’s at all possible because if anything, I jokingly said I would give him a 25-year contract for making the goal (against Hearts).
“We have had conversations with his agent at this minute, so we’ll see where that goes.”
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