Celtic pursue Keane for manager role while keeping O'Neill option open

Celtic have held constructive talks with Robbie Keane about their managerial vacancy, with further discussions scheduled this week as the Scottish champions accelerate their search for Brendan Rodgers' permanent successor.

Principal shareholder Dermot Desmond will also speak with interim boss Martin O'Neill to establish his appetite for remaining at the club in some capacity, according to Sky Sports.

Keane emerges as surprise frontrunner despite thin CV

The Republic of Ireland legend's candidacy represents a significant gamble for Celtic given his limited managerial experience.

Keane's only senior management role came at Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he lasted just seven months before departing in June 2024. His coaching CV includes:

• Assistant manager roles with Ireland, Middlesbrough and Leeds United
• A brief spell as player-manager at ATK in the Indian Super League
• Seven months as Maccabi Tel Aviv head coach

Celtic's history with inexperienced appointments

The Parkhead board has previously taken calculated risks on managers with limited track records. Neil Lennon's first appointment in 2010 came with minimal experience, yet he delivered three consecutive league titles.

However, the current Celtic squad faces greater expectations, sitting atop the Scottish Premiership and eyeing Champions League progression. Keane would inherit a team expecting to maintain domestic dominance while improving European performances.

O'Neill's potential return raises questions about Celtic's direction

Martin O'Neill's involvement adds complexity to Celtic's succession planning. The Northern Irishman managed Celtic from 2000 to 2005, winning three league titles and reaching the 2003 UEFA Cup final.

What role could O'Neill fill?

Desmond's planned discussions with O'Neill suggest multiple scenarios remain possible:

• Continuing as interim manager if the Keane talks stall
• A director of football position overseeing recruitment
• An advisory role supporting a younger head coach
• A short-term contract as permanent manager

This dual approach indicates uncertainty at board level about the club's strategic direction. Pursuing an untested Keane whilst keeping a 72-year-old O'Neill in reserve suggests Celtic lack conviction in their post-Rodgers planning.

Transfer market implications: Rangers and West Ham circle Celtic's stability

The managerial uncertainty arrives as rivals attempt to exploit potential instability at Parkhead.

West Ham United have made an initial enquiry about Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan, with the Hammers preparing for Championship football next season. They're also monitoring Celtic centre-forward Callum Osmand, though the Scottish champions are unlikely to sell the 20-year-old prospect.

Rangers strengthen while Celtic deliberate

Meanwhile, Rangers have opened direct contact with representatives of Hammarby right-back Hampus Skoglund. The Swedish defender has three years remaining on his contract but represents the type of targeted recruitment Celtic's city rivals are pursuing.

Rangers are also in talks with Toronto about midfielder Jose Cifuentes, whose loan expires this month. The 27-year-old could provide additional depth as Philippe Clement's side attempts to capitalise on any Celtic disruption.

Squad planning on hold

Celtic's transfer strategy remains frozen until the managerial situation resolves. Key decisions await regarding:

• Contract extensions for players entering final years
• January transfer targets and budget allocation
• Youth academy graduates ready for first-team promotion
• Potential departures seeking regular playing time

What happens next

The coming week proves pivotal for Celtic's immediate future. Further talks with Keane will determine whether the Irishman possesses the tactical acumen and man-management skills required for Scottish football's biggest job.

Desmond's discussions with O'Neill could provide clarity on whether the veteran manager represents a fallback option or potential support structure. With Rangers actively strengthening and European competitions resuming in February, Celtic cannot afford prolonged uncertainty.

The board's decision will reveal whether they prioritise continuity through O'Neill's experience or embrace risk with Keane's untested potential. Either path carries implications for Celtic's domestic dominance and European ambitions.