Celtic manager Martin O’Neill’s has confirmed that the club are in talks to sign Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi. The duo were part of the Celtic team last season that won a League and Cup Double but their future at Celtic Park remains to be seen.
Speaking after the draw against Shelbourne at Tolka Park in Dublin, O’Neill revealed that he wanted both players to be back for the new campaign.
Iheanacho is out of contract but there has been no announcement on his future, with confirmation now coming that talks are ongoing between the Nigerian striker and the Scottish Champions.
“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.
“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.”
Iheanacho’s eye for a goal proved to be vital in the run in and the hope is that if he can get himself fit and firing then Celtic can reap the rewards. With Daizen Maeda expected to depart this summer, Celtic could use some tested quality in attack and Iheanacho represents that quality with further acquisitions required.
Saracchi is another player that Celtic are interested in bringing back ahead of the new campaign. The 28-year-old deputised well for Kieran Tierney last season and it is expected that he will leave Boca Juniors this summer.
“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.”
The Uruguayan reportedly wants a return to Celtic but he wants a long term contract, especially at his age and stage of his career. The defender is said to be available for around £1.5m, which should really be a no brainer given his quality.
