Celtic Table Offer For This ‘Free Agent’ Centre-forward: Why The Hoops Must Push For His Parkhead Return | OneFootball

If a recent transfer update from Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph is accurate, Celtic have offered Kelechi Iheanacho a new contract, with the Nigerian now training on his own after his Parkhead deal expired a couple of weeks ago. However, the in-demand centre-forward has yet to accept the offer, as he is assessing all the proposals before committing his future.

The 29-year-old Nigerian international completed a Bosman switch, reuniting with Brendan Rodgers back in September. But the Northern Irishman stepped down from his role in less than two months following a series of disappointing outcomes. Iheanacho, who was supposed to spearhead the attack, had a stop-start season due to persistent injury problems. Nevertheless, he shook it off late in the campaign and netted some decisive goals as a ‘super sub’ en route to conquering the ‘domestic double’.

MOTHERWELL, SCOTLAND – MAY 13: Stephen O’Donnell of Motherwell passes the ball while under pressure from Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic during the William Hill Premiership match between Motherwell and Celtic at Fir Park on May 13, 2026 in Motherwell, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Although the deadline for triggering the one-year extension of his previous contract had already expired, Martin O’Neill has confirmed that a concrete offer has been made for the hitman. The veteran Northern Irish boss reiterated his desire to keep hold of the ‘number 9’, and it is now up to Iheanacho whether he prefers a return or a fresh challenge elsewhere.

What Role Iheanacho Would Be Offered At Celtic

Despite a slow start to the window, Celtic have lately stepped up their transfer business. O’Neill has convinced Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to stay for at least one more season. Also, a fee of around £6m has been splashed to secure Camilo Duran’s services from Qarabağ. Meanwhile, Daizen Maeda is seeking an exit to pursue his Premier League dreams, and Duran, known for his high work ethic and flexibility up top, could emerge as a like-for-like replacement for the Japanese striker.

The Hoops made some below-par signings in the winter window, as neither Tomas Cvancara nor Junior Adamu earned a permanent move after failing to impress on loan. Johnny Kenny might be offloaded too amid strong interest from south of the border, leaving them with Callum Osmand as the only other striking option. Iheanacho’s experience would come into play here, similar to how he did earlier this year by firing in late winners time and again.

Having said that, his minutes must be managed carefully to avoid further fitness woes. Duran should lead the line upon his high-profile switch to Celtic Park, and Iheanacho must accept a squad role if he opts for a Parkhead return.