Dermot Desmond may have found Celtic’s next winner after major talks

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Celtic majority shareholder Dermot Desmond has reportedly decided who he wants to lead the club permanently, with fresh reports suggesting a title-winning coach is now at the top of the club’s shortlist.

The Hoops secured a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership crown this season after defeating Hearts on the final day of the campaign. Caretaker manager Martin O’Neill oversaw the title success following a turbulent year that saw both Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy depart midway through the season.

Speculation had grown over whether O’Neill could remain in charge beyond the current campaign, especially after holding direct discussions regarding the role. However, a new report from the Irish Examiner suggests Desmond has now settled on his preferred candidate.

Former Celtic loanee Robbie Keane has reportedly emerged as the leading contender to take over at Celtic Park after holding face-to-face talks with Desmond on Monday evening.

Keane recently left Hungarian champions Ferencváros after spending 18 months in charge and is believed to be eager to continue his managerial career at a higher level. The former Republic of Ireland striker is understood to be interested in returning to Celtic, where he enjoyed a short spell as a player during his career.

Desmond is said to favour appointing Keane ahead of O’Neill, though the experienced caretaker boss could still remain involved at the club in an advisory position.

The 45-year-old has already built an impressive coaching résumé, having managed both Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ferencváros. During his time with the two clubs, Keane lifted league titles and domestic cup silverware, strengthening his credentials ahead of a potential move to Glasgow.

Should the appointment materialise, it would represent the biggest managerial opportunity of Keane’s career so far, with the pressure and expectations at Celtic significantly greater than at his previous clubs.