Celtic reportedly still want to sign Kelechi Iheanacho despite letting their option on his contract expire.
The 29-year-old joined the club just after deadline day last summer when his Sevilla contract was ended, and signed a one-year deal with the option of an extension.
His signed wasn't one that was heralded but, after getting over some injury issues, he had a massive say in Celtic winning the double with several huge goals in the title race as well as netting in the Scottish Cup semi-final and final.
Iheanacho was not present as players returned for pre-season with his contract having run out, which means the club has missed out on the chance to trigger his extension.
However, the Scottish Sun is reporting manager Martin O'Neill wants the player to stay and Iheanacho is keen for that outcome too.
Failing to trigger his extensions means they will have to do battle with other interested clubs though, and there is interest from sides in Turkey and elsewhere in Europe.
The Nigerian's former agent John Inglis said: “Celtic should absolutely look to keep Kelechi.
“I know how much he loved playing for the club last season and the joy he took from winning the big trophies.
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“I think he proved himself with very important goals. Kelechi’s just a brilliant finisher in the box.
“He almost went to Celtic at the start of last year after Brendan Rodgers came in for him.
“We had good discussions over the possibility and Kelechi was very keen to play again for Brendan.
“But Middlesbrough were really determined for his signature and even sent a private jet for him. Kelechi joined them.
“What I do think is vital is that he gets a full pre-season with a team and if Celtic are to do anything to keep him then I’d urge them to move quickly.
“Kelechi’s missed the last couple of pre-seasons and it’s left him having to play catch-up with his fitness going into the seasons that have followed.
“It happened again when he went to Celtic and it took him time to get up to speed.
“But everyone saw how good he can be. He’s a big game player and a tremendous pressure moment finisher. I don’t look after Kelechi now but I still regard him as a friend.
