24 May 2026 13:04 BST |
4 min read
Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho has confirmed that he wants to stay at the club next season amid rumours that he could depart during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Nigeria international signed a one-year contract at Celtic Park upon his arrival on a Bosman deal from Sevilla last summer and he is currently set to become a free agent at the end of June.
It’s understood that Celtic have the option to extend his deal by a further 12 months if they wish, however they are yet to confirm whether they will trigger this clause ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Iheanacho scored nine goals in 24 games for Celtic this summer and he netted the third goal during their 3-1 win over Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup final on Saturday afternoon.
After the match, Iheanacho told reporters: “I love the supporters, I love them all. Everyone in the streets of Glasgow, people recognise me. I am happy. The whole of Glasgow is a great city.
“Hopefully, I will be here next season. I am really happy to wear a Celtic shirt and to play for them with all my heart.”
Analysis: Why Celtic should keep Kelechi Iheanacho
Having arrived in September without a pre-season, Iheanacho has been an excellent signing for Celtic and extending his current deal would be a fantastic idea given his impact during his debut campaign at the club.
The former Manchester City striker only started four league matches due to persistent injury problems, but he was consistently used as an impact substitute when available and he proved to be immensely valuable as Celtic narrowly beat rivals Hearts to the Scottish Premiership title.
Furthermore, with Daizen Maeda potentially set to leave Celtic Park this summer and loanees Junior Adamu, Tomas Cvancara and Joel Mvuka all returning to their parent clubs, the Scottish giants would be wise to keep Iheanacho at the club in order to reduce a full overhaul of their attacking roster.
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