Celtic Set To Rival European Heavyweights For This Irish Sensation: One For The Future? | OneFootball

If a recent transfer update from Fabrizio Romano is believed to be true, Celtic have tabled a bid for Michael Noonan. But the Hoops are not alone in the hunt, as the German outfit Hoffenheim had a couple of offers rejected for the striking sensation. Shamrock Rovers have set a valuation of €2m for their prized asset, and according to the Irish Examiner, a bidding war is anticipated, with Chelsea registering their interest.

The 17-year-old Republic of Ireland youth international spent his academy years across Monasterevin, Crumlin United, Ballyoulster United and St Patrick’s Athletic before breaking into the latter’s senior side a couple of years back. He joined Rovers last winter on a Bosman, and has since cemented a regular role, having scored 9 goals and assisted 4 times in 46 appearances [stats via Transfermarket] across competitions.

Noonan soon showcased his promises and potential, as he became the youngest ever scorer in UEFA Conference League history with a goal on his Hoops debut against Molde in Norway. The teenage ace has a very high ceiling and, therefore, grabbed the attention of several top European outfits.

WOLFSBURG, GERMANY – MARCH 25: Melvin Onos (L) and Elias Decker (R) of Germany fight for the ball with Michael Noonan of Ireland during the UEFA Under19 EURO Qualifier between Germany U19 and Ireland U19 at Drömlingstadion on March 25, 2025 in Wolfsburg, Germany. (Photo by Selim Sudheimer/Getty Images for DFB)

Martin O’Neill has steadied the ship at Parkhead, overcoming the 33-day nightmare under Wilfried Nancy. But the veteran Irish boss has reiterated the necessity of reinforcements, particularly in the attacking third, following a catastrophic summer window in terms of transfer business.

Why Celtic Must Show Ambition To Snap Up The Future Star

Celtic parted ways with Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah over the past two windows without roping in quality alternatives. They tied down ‘free agent’ Kelechi Iheanacho after the window was slammed shut; als the ‘project signings’ Callum Osmand and Shin Yamada have not served the purpose. Osmand looked impressive in limited minutes before suffering a major hamstring strain, whereas Yamada has failed to live up to the expectations, with little involvement under all three managers so far this season.

The Bhoys hold a good relationship with Shamrock Rovers, as they loaned Johnny Kenny out to Tallaght for first-team football. His exquisite scoring form earned him a key status at Celtic Park, and the Republic of Ireland international, whom Noonan has replaced in South Dublin, has been rotated with Daizen Maeda and Iheanacho high up the pitch.

Meanwhile, Iheanacho’s persistent injury woes could haunt the Celts in the decisive months. They have already missed out on several top targets over the past couple of weeks, and a move for Noonan might also end in disappointment, unless they outbid the fellow suitors before it gets too late.