O’Neill Makes His Intentions Clear on Iheanacho and Saracchi

Martin O’Neill has delivered his clearest indication yet that he wants both Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi back at Celtic, but his comments also underline the urgency of getting deals completed before the new season gathers pace.

Speaking after Celtic’s victory over Shelbourne, O’Neill left little room for doubt over his admiration for Iheanacho.

“I’d like to do something with him. If we can do something relatively quickly, at least he then gets started in pre-season, which is really important for him.”

That statement alone tells supporters everything they need to know. O’Neill doesn’t just like the player – he recognises how vital a full pre-season could be after an injury-disrupted spell that never truly allowed Iheanacho to settle.

The Celtic manager then revealed talks are already underway.

“We are talking to his agent now at this moment. I would like to have him. It would be nice. I’m definitely pursuing that at this minute.”

Those are strong words from a manager who rarely gives such a direct insight into ongoing transfer negotiations. However, O’Neill also confirmed that Iheanacho will not join the squad for the training camp in Portugal, meaning supporters may have to remain patient a little longer.

O’Neill also addressed Marcelo Saracchi, confirming Celtic are working to bring the Uruguayan left-back back to the club following his successful loan spell. While he offered fewer direct quotes on Saracchi, his message was equally clear – discussions are ongoing and the defender remains a player he wants at Celtic despite interest from elsewhere.

For Celtic supporters, these comments are encouraging. The manager has publicly identified two players he believes can strengthen his squad. The challenge now falls elsewhere.

Fans have heard positive noises before, only for negotiations to drag on or collapse altogether. If O’Neill has identified Iheanacho and Saracchi as key additions, then those responsible for completing transfers must now deliver. With the Premiership opener drawing ever closer, there is little value in identifying targets if the deals cannot be finalised.

Martin O’Neill has made his intentions unmistakably clear. Now it is time for Celtic’s decision-makers to match his ambition with action, because words alone will not strengthen this squad.