Frank McAvennie has revealed that Celtic are planning to provide Martin O'Neill with a substantial £40 million transfer budget upon his return as manager. The 74-year-old former boss, who previously led the club to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double last season, has reportedly held talks with majority shareholder Dermot Desmond regarding a one-year contract to take over permanently.
McAvennie's Insights on the Transfer War Chest
Speaking on his podcast 'Let Me Be Frank', McAvennie stated: "I heard £40 million for how much he is going to have to spend. I think there is a lot of players they need to get rid of. I know you are going to be losing money on some of them, but even if you get them out and get the wages." He also named several players he believes will depart, including Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Benjamin Nygren, Daizen Maeda, and Reo Hatate, while predicting Arne Engels will stay.
First Signing Target: Bobby Clark Faces Competition
Celtic's priority signing appears to be RB Salzburg midfielder Bobby Clark, who spent the season on loan at Derby County. However, the club faces stiff competition from at least half-a-dozen other clubs, including West Ham United, who have shown interest following their Premier League relegation. Clark, 21, is under contract with Salzburg for three more years, and the Austrian club is reportedly open to a cut-price sale to reduce their wage bill.
Record Sport previously reported that Celtic were monitoring Clark's situation, but securing his signature will be a challenge given the interest from other clubs. The Derby Telegraph has confirmed that multiple teams are keen on the playmaker, making O'Neill's first signing a potential hurdle.
As Celtic prepare for a squad overhaul, the board's backing with a significant transfer fund signals their ambition to strengthen under O'Neill's leadership. The official announcement of O'Neill's appointment is still pending, with Robbie Keane also in contention for the role.
