Robbie Keane has emerged as the frontrunner to become Celtic's next permanent manager, with the club planning a major restructuring of football operations at the end of the season. The Irishman's work at Ferencvaros and previously Maccabi Tel Aviv has placed him as the prime candidate to succeed Martin O'Neill, whose interim spell will conclude in the summer.
Celtic's hierarchy believe Keane could be tempted by a move to Glasgow, though competition from other British clubs is expected. Keane was linked with Tottenham after Thomas Frank's dismissal but declined a short-term arrangement. No formal approach will be made until the domestic season ends, but Keane remains firmly in Celtic's sights.
Other candidates include Craig Bellamy and Jens Berthel Askou. Bellamy's situation is complicated by Wales' involvement in World Cup playoffs, while Askou has impressed at Motherwell, though some at Celtic feel the step up may be too great. The club faces a significant player overhaul this summer amid criticism of 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 led Ferencvaros to the Hungarian top flight last season, and they are joint-top this term while still competing in the Europa League. O'Neill, aged 74, could secure a domestic double before stepping aside, with assistant Shaun Maloney tipped for a senior background role.
