Celtic have reportedly allowed their option to extend Kelechi Iheanacho's contract to expire, leaving the 29-year-old striker's future uncertain despite his pivotal role in the club's historic double-winning season.
The Nigeria international inspired the Hoops to the Premiership title with crucial winners against Dundee, Hibs, and Motherwell in the final run-in, and also netted in the Scottish Cup final. However, his fitness struggles during the campaign meant he was often used as a super-sub under manager Martin O'Neill.
Contract Option Expires
According to The Sun, the chance to trigger a contract extension has "expired and the free agent striker's in limbo over his future." The report states there have been "no concrete talks" over his future, despite the player being keen to stay and O'Neill being "delighted to keep him."
Iheanacho was notably absent from the start of pre-season training at Lennoxtown. Clubs in Turkey have reportedly already offered terms to the free agent, with clubs across Europe now on red alert.
O'Neill's Praise
During the campaign, O'Neill hailed Iheanacho's impact off the bench: "Iheanacho comes off the bench, shows a bit of class, a bit of composure as well to put it in the net and win it for us. Sometimes it's really difficult when you're coming off the bench. First of all, you have to try and get into the game. Secondly, something might fall to you but he showed great composure in getting in because the ball took an age to come down but he still put it in the net as only he can do."
