Saracchi green lights Celtic move as Parkhead chiefs launch contact

Celtic are now set to open talks to sign a key defensive addition, who has already gifted Parkhead chiefs the green-light over a summer move.

Whilst Rangers and Hearts prepare for new eras under new managers, Celtic have decided to stick with Martin O’Neill. The veteran manager enjoyed two interim spells last season, with his second stint ending in a Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup double in dramatic circumstances.

Even at 74, O’Neill has still got it and his side are arguably in the most stable position to win yet another league title next season, especially if they welcome certain incomings.

To that end, the Bhoys have reportedly set their sights on the likes of Elijah Just in recent weeks. The Motherwell forward has already impressed for New Zealand at the World Cup, scoring an excellent goal against Iran in a 2-2 draw.

The winger isn’t the only familiar name that Celtic are chasing this summer, either, and reports are now suggesting that they could be closing in on their first signing of the summer.

Celtic set to open talks to sign defender

As the managerial merry-go-round kicks off in Scotland, it’s the Bhoys who could steal headlines on the transfer front. According to Daily Record, Celtic are ready to finalise their move to sign Marcelo Saracchi this summer, turning his loan move permanent.

The left-back has been told to pack his bags and leave Boca Juniors and is keen on a return to Parkhead, leaving the ball very much in Celtic’s court. Talks are reportedly set to get underway between all parties over a deal which could cost £2m.

It will be music to O’Neill’s ears, no doubt. The experienced manager was full of praise for Saracchi on the final day of the Scottish Premiership campaign, with cameras capturing a wholesome dressing room scene in which he dubbed the defender a “special character”.

Ever since that day, a permanent move for Saracchi has made perfect sense. It’s not one that will break the bank at Celtic, either. Instead, it’s one that will hand O’Neill an instant reunion with a player that he clearly rates.

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