Alex MacQuoid
Mourinho Linked with Celtic Amid Postecoglou Speculation
Jose Mourinho is reportedly in the frame to become Celtic’s next permanent manager—a move that would send shockwaves through Scottish football. The 63-year-old Portuguese tactician, currently at Benfica, is said to be considering his future before the World Cup, with the Hoops emerging as a potential destination despite Ange Postecoglou’s expected return.
Sources suggest the club’s hierarchy is exploring all options, though Mourinho’s arrival would mark a dramatic shift in style and ambition. His reputation for tactical pragmatism and silverware success could appeal to a side chasing domestic dominance—and European progress.
Transfer Rumours Swirl as Schlager Chooses Juventus
Celtic’s summer transfer plans have hit a snag after Juventus edged ahead in the race for RB Leipzig midfielder Xaver Schlager. The 28-year-old Austrian, out of contract this summer, confirmed his departure from Leipzig but opted for the Serie A giants over the Scottish champions.
The Hoops had been monitoring Schlager’s situation closely, with his technical ability and experience in the Champions League making him an ideal target. His decision leaves Brendan Rodgers with a gap to fill in midfield as the club prepares for another tilt at the Premiership title.
Welsh Returns to Motherwell in Last-Minute Loan Deal
Stephen Welsh has revealed he was kept in the dark until the final moments of the January transfer window before sealing a loan move back to Motherwell. The 26-year-old centre-half, who came through Celtic’s youth ranks, admitted frustration at the lack of communication but insisted the switch was the right move for his development.
“I didn’t know until the last minute. It was a bit of a whirlwind, but I’m happy to be back at Fir Park and playing regularly.”
Welsh’s departure leaves Celtic with a thinner defensive roster, though the club’s recruitment team is expected to act before the summer window opens.
Rangers Hold Firm on Bailey Rice Amid Premier League Interest
Rangers remain optimistic about retaining Bailey Rice, despite mounting interest from Premier League clubs. The 19-year-old midfielder, a free agent this summer, is currently sidelined with a knee injury but is seen as a key part of Philippe Clement’s long-term plans.
Fresh contract talks are expected once Rice returns to full fitness, with the club determined to avoid losing another young talent to England’s top flight. His performances before the injury had already caught the eye of scouts south of the border.
Other Transfer Gossip and Bits
- Gary Caldwell is the frontrunner for the Wigan Athletic job, with the former Scotland defender set to return to the club where he once captained.
- Damir Redzic snubbed Celtic and Rangers to join Red Bull Salzburg, despite the Hoops reportedly making a higher offer. The 22-year-old Hungary striker’s decision was confirmed by his former club’s sports director.
- Greg Taylor admitted he left Celtic for PAOK last summer due to concerns over game time, particularly with Kieran Tierney returning from Arsenal.
- Falkirk manager John McGlynn dismissed claims Celtic were interested in Calvin Miller, insisting no contact was made on deadline day.
- Stuttgart, Celtic’s Europa League opponents, have been given time off to prepare for their play-off clash later this month.
- Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder suggested Joe Rothwell’s lack of game time at Rangers contributed to his red card on his Blades debut.
- The Glasgow Subway will run extended services this Sunday for the Rangers vs Heart of Midlothian Premiership clash.
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