Kelechi Iheanacho reaches decision over Celtic stay amid transfer speculation

Kelechi Iheanacho is keen to stay at Celtic F.C. for the upcoming season, despite reports suggesting he has made himself available to other clubs.

The Nigerian striker finished last season in impressive form, scoring nine goals across all competitions, including important efforts against Hibernian F.C. and a dramatic last-gasp penalty against Motherwell F.C. in May.

However, Celtic are yet to table an offer for the former Manchester City F.C. forward. Martin O’Neill had previously remained tight-lipped on Iheanacho’s situation during his spell as interim manager, noting at the time that his temporary role meant he had little influence over the striker’s future.

Now that O’Neill has taken charge permanently, Iheanacho’s situation is one of the key decisions on his agenda.

Celtic are expected to strengthen their attacking options this summer, with Tomáš Čvančara returning to parent club Borussia Mönchengladbach and no plans in place to activate his buy clause. There is also uncertainty surrounding Daizen Maeda, who could leave after four years at the club.

That leaves Iheanacho’s future as a potentially crucial piece of Celtic’s summer plans, as the club look to maintain proven goalscoring options within the squad, even if only as backup.