Robbie Keane is the leading candidate to become the next permanent manager of Celtic, with the club planning a major restructuring of football operations at the end of the season. Keane's work at Ferencvaros and previously Maccabi Tel Aviv has placed him as the prime successor to Martin O'Neill, whose interim spell ends in the summer.
Celtic's hierarchy believe Keane would be open to a move to Glasgow, though competition from other British clubs is expected. Keane was linked with Tottenham after Thomas Frank's sacking but declined a short-term role. No formal approach will be made until the domestic season concludes, but Keane is firmly in Celtic's sights.
Other candidates include Craig Bellamy and Jens Berthel Askou. Bellamy's availability is complicated by Wales's World Cup playoff involvement, while Askou has impressed at Motherwell, though some at Celtic worry the step up may be too great. Celtic face a significant player overhaul this summer and are aware of criticism over recent transfer windows.
Keane, who had a brief playing spell at Celtic in 2010, won the Israeli title in his only full season as a manager there. He then led Ferencvaros to the Hungarian top flight last season, and they are joint-top this term. Ferencvaros also remain in the Europa League, facing Sporting Braga on Thursday.
O'Neill could secure a domestic double at age 74, but his tenure was always understood to be short-term. Assistant Shaun Maloney is tipped for a senior background role at Celtic after the season ends. Celtic began the campaign under Brendan Rodgers, who resigned acrimoniously, and then hired Wilfried Nancy, whose disastrous spell lasted eight games. O'Neill's return has stabilised the club as they look towards a fresh approach. Celtic trail leaders Hearts by five points in the Scottish Premiership.
