Celtic to look elsewhere as Steve Clarke in ‘advanced talks’ over manager role
Celtic managerial target Steve Clarke is set to sign a new deal with the national team adding to the seven years he has been in charge.
The 62-year-old will lead Scotland to a first World Cup since 1998 this summer, and there had been uncertainty over his future beyond that.
Clarke’s last managerial role was a successful one with Kilmarnock, but it is unclear whether he would be ready to return.
The Hoops could have offered that opportunity, with the Scottish Premiership champions set to appoint a new figurehead in the coming weeks.
Celtic’s next manager must be the right choice, after the appointment of Wilfried Nancy proved to be such a disaster.
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VISIT THE MANAGER HUBSteve Clarke to stay with Scotland despite Celtic interest
Football Insider exclusively revealed in January that Clarke is of interest to Celtic, with the former Chelsea player admired for his experience.
The 62-year-old has done a superb job with Scotland, instantly guiding them to their first major international tournament since 1998 when he led them to the delayed European Championships in 2021.
| Steve Clarke | Scotland 2019-current |
| Wins | 35 |
| Draws | 14 |
| Losses | 27 |
| Scored | 118 |
| Conceded | 107 |
| Points per game | 1.57 |
Scotland finished bottom of their group and would suffer elimination at the group stage again after qualifying for the 2024 edition of the tournament.
It was in November that the Tartan Army would qualify for the World Cup, scoring twice in injury time to beat Denmark at Hampden Park and book their ticket to North America.
There have been some murmurs that Clarke would see out the tournament before departing this summer, but according to The Times, the manager is now close to agreeing a new deal.
Talks over a contract that would see him through to the 2028 European Championship are at an advanced stage, effectively ending any possibility of a move to Celtic.
Who are the favourites to take over Celtic?
One major bookmaker currently has Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou and Portugal manager Roberto Martinez neck and neck in the race to be Celtic’s next manager.
The Dane has enjoyed a hugely impressive opening season for the Steelmen, leading them to a fourth-place finish and qualifying for European football.
It is unclear whether he will be willing to leave Motherwell this summer, but Martinez looks set to be available after the World Cup.
Other names in the running include Robbie Keane and Thomas Frank, with the preference of decision-makers at Parkhead still unclear.
Target: Elijah Just (Motherwell)
Long-term: Carter-Vickers out
League Pos: 2nd (61 pts)
Status: Summer Talks Underway
Revenue: £143.6m (2025)