Celtic fans fume at 'embarrassing' Kelechi Iheanacho update

Celtic supporters have slammed the club on social media for the delay in tying Kelechi Iheanacho to a new contract.

Martin O'Neill admitted earlier this week that he was hopeful of progressing in contract talks with the striker.

He signed a one-year deal after joining on a free transfer last September, and went on to play a key role in their Premiership title win.

Iheanacho stepped off the bench several times to score vital goals in the run-in as they eventually won the league on the final day.

Celtic have offered him a new contract, but many fans believe that they have lowballed the 29-year-old as he reportedly "weighs up" their new approach.

His return would provide a major boost to the Hoops' attacking ranks after fellow forward Camilo Duran arrived as their first summer signing last week.

Celtic fans slam their board over latest Kelechi Iheanacho update

Iheanacho ended last term with nine goals in 24 games for Celtic, with five Premiership strikes in just 13 appearances and four starts.

He has reportedly received contracts from several Turkish clubs this summer, and the delay in him signing on at Parkhead has made fans speculate over their board possibly missing the mark with their new offer.

Taking to X, one supporter said: "I bet the board are trying to undercut him, and as usual, will fail."

While another added: "The fact it’s took 3 weeks into pre-season to offer a player that was there last season a new deal is absolutely criminal. A player that absolutely needs the pre-season more than most makes it even worse. They are a complete shambles."

And another jokingly added: "Great to see us concluding our business swiftly."

Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that O'Neill will still see Iheanacho as a back-up if he stays at Celtic, and that may also be a sticking point in getting him to agree to fresh terms.

What has Iheanacho said about staying at Celtic?

Tying the former Nigeria striker to a new deal is seen as vital to Celtic, especially considering their current lack of forward options.

Daizen Maeda is pushing to leave Parkhead this summer, and so Duran, Johnny Kenny and Callum Osmand make up their current, under-contract strike force.

Iheanacho has admitted that he wants to stay in Glasgow after becoming attached to the club, city and their fans.

Speaking in May, he said: "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. 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.”