Celtic's Managerial Search: Keane Talks and O’Neill's Future

The Glasgow giants are already moving pieces on and off the pitch as the summer reshuffle begins to take shape across Scottish football.

Celtic’s dugout dilemma: Keane in talks, O’Neill in the frame

Celtic have opened what are described as constructive talks with Robbie Keane as they search for a new manager, a move that underlines both the urgency and ambition behind their latest rebuild.

Keane, long admired within the club and a former fan favourite during his loan spell in Glasgow, has emerged as a serious contender for the vacancy. Discussions are set to continue this week, with the dialogue judged positive enough to keep all parties at the table.

Behind the scenes, principal shareholder Dermot Desmond is preparing another key conversation. He will speak with interim boss Martin O'Neill to gauge whether the veteran manager is willing to remain at the club in some capacity once a permanent appointment is made.

It leaves Celtic at a crossroads of eras: Keane representing a bold, modern coaching bet, O’Neill the seasoned figure whose presence still carries enormous weight in the corridors of power at Parkhead. How Desmond balances those forces will shape the club’s next chapter.

Rangers push for Skoglund as squad surgery begins

Across the city, Rangers are wasting little time addressing their own needs.

The Ibrox club have opened direct contact with the representatives of Hammarby right-back Hampus Skoglund, who has three years left on his deal with the Swedish side. Going straight to the player’s camp signals clear intent from Rangers as they look to strengthen a key area of the pitch.

With Skoglund tied down long term, Hammarby hold a strong hand at the negotiating table. Rangers, though, have made their move early, hoping to position themselves ahead of rival interest and lock down a solution on the right flank before pre-season plans harden.

West Ham target Scottish market with Mulligan and Osmand on radar

While the Old Firm reshape at the top and the back, West Ham United are casting their eye north as they prepare for life in the Championship.

The London club have lodged an initial enquiry for Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan, 23, as they begin plotting a squad capable of handling the grind of a promotion push. Mulligan’s age and profile fit neatly into a strategy built around energy, resale value and room for growth.

West Ham are also monitoring Celtic centre-forward Callum Osmand. The 20-year-old has caught attention south of the border, but prising him away from the Scottish champions will not be straightforward. Celtic are thought to be highly reluctant to part with a young striker who could become central to their longer-term planning.

So the pattern is already clear. Celtic weigh up a new managerial era while trying to hold on to emerging talent. Rangers look abroad to sharpen their defensive options. West Ham circle, sensing opportunity in a Scottish market that continues to produce players ready for the next step.

The negotiations now will decide who walks out for the first game of next season in green and white, in blue, or in claret and blue — and who is left wondering what might have been.