Celtic are looking for a permanent manager and that will focus on the international break, although they appear to be prioritizing new arrivals regardless of the new man in the dugout.
Martin O’Neill has chaired the Parkhead group since Brendan Rodgers’ acrimonious departure from the Scottish Premiership champions, and there is still plenty of speculation over who could replace the Irishman on a full-time basis.
Since arriving at the club after a 20-year hiatus, the former has scored a morale-boosting victory against Falkirk and led the Bhoys to the Premier Sports Cup final in a thrilling triumph over Rangers, leading some reports to claim O’Neill could take on the role permanently.
There is, however, a long list of candidates, which is difficult to narrow down as the international break approaches. Bodo/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen is also a contender to lead Celtic amid a glorious spell in Norway.
On the other hand, the main downside to any approach to hiring the 57-year-old is that he would like to finish his Champions League campaign before committing to life in Scotland.
Ipswich Town’s Wilfried Nancy, Robbie Keane and Kieran McKenna are also on the Bhoys’ radar. Regardless, this appears to be a pursuit that could continue for some time, as majority shareholder Dermot Desmond carefully considers his options.
Outside of the manager hunt, Celtic are considering a bid for Kilmarnock midfielder David Watson, who is available to sign on a pre-contract in January and is also wanted by rivals Rangers.
Recruitment continues as the reigning champions look to strengthen in Heart of Midlothian’s title fight, and they could now look to an untapped market to land a shining star.
Celtic attempt to sign Under-20 World Cup winner Hossam Essadak
According to AfricaFoot, Celtic have submitted an offer for Moroccan attacking midfielder Hossam Essadak, currently on the cards for Union Touarga Sport.
Recently, he participated in the Under-20 World Cup with his country, leading them to glory after beating Argentina 2-0 in the final to record a historic triumph.
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Hossam Essadak’s senior career |
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Appearances |
35 |
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Goals |
4 |
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Aids |
4 |
With no shortage of suitors, Sunderland have also made an official bid to try and land the burgeoning talent, and European clubs are said to be leading the race for his signature despite growing interest from Wydad Casablanca and RS Berkane in his homeland.
According to Fotmob, Essadak created four chances, completed four dribbles and won six duels during Morocco’s World Cup exploits, and he could well be the latest Celtic star to sign from North Africa following the summer capture of Sebastian Tounekti.
Celtic also prepare emotional move for Premier League icon
Certainly, the Bhoys are well stocked in midfield and departures may be necessary before the new arrivals can settle in at Lennoxtown, although it appears work is underway to bolster the ranks with talented stars with development potential.
