Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho remains one of the biggest names on the free-agent market, with uncertainty still surrounding his future after his Celtic contract expired at the end of June.
The Nigerian international is currently without a club after Celtic decided against activating the automatic one-year extension in his deal, bringing his initial contract to an end.
Although no agreement has been reached, the 29-year-old is understood to be keen on extending his stay at Parkhead after enjoying an encouraging debut campaign with the Scottish champions.
Iheanacho registered nine goals in 24 appearances in all competitions, establishing himself as one of Celtic’s most effective substitutes. His late goals proved decisive on several occasions as the Hoops lifted both the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup titles.
The former Leicester City striker finished the season strongly, scoring six times in his final nine matches, including crucial late winners and a stoppage-time penalty against Motherwell.
However, concerns over his injury record have reportedly slowed negotiations. Hamstring problems disrupted parts of his campaign, leaving Celtic cautious about committing to another deal as they prepare for a demanding season that includes domestic and European fixtures.
Despite the uncertainty, Iheanacho has attracted interest from elsewhere. Turkish clubs Bursaspor, Samsunspor and Beşiktaş are all believed to be monitoring his situation, while Brazilian outfit Vasco da Gama have also tabled an offer. Reports indicate the Nigerian has placed any move outside Europe on hold as he prioritises remaining on the continent.
McAvennie fuels Celtic rumours
Fresh speculation over Iheanacho’s future gathered momentum after former Celtic and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie revealed he had heard rumours linking the Nigerian with a new deal.
McAvennie disclosed that he recently spent time in Ireland with former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill and the club’s chief executive, Michael Nicholson. While he did not claim either man confirmed the news, he said talk of Iheanacho signing a new contract was already circulating.
Speaking on his Let Me Be Frank podcast, McAvennie said:
“There was a rumour going about in Ireland that Iheanacho has signed. He’s got another year. I’m delighted. What a game-changer he is.
“If he does that all the time, just bring him on for the last half hour if we need him.”
It is important to note that McAvennie was only passing on what he had heard and did not confirm that Iheanacho had agreed fresh terms with Celtic. At the time of writing, neither the Scottish champions nor the player’s representatives have announced a new contract.
Celtic, meanwhile, continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season. The club have already retained Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for another year, while Colombian forward Camilo Duran is reportedly close to completing a medical before sealing his move to Glasgow.
With pre-season preparations set to begin against Shelbourne, attention will remain firmly on whether Iheanacho’s future is finally resolved before the new campaign gets underway.
