Sources: Celtic fear Palace could scupper Howe appointment after big development
Celtic fear Crystal Palace could scupper their plans to appoint Eddie Howe as manager next week, Football Insider understands.
The Premier League club are in the market for a new boss to replace Roy Hodgson and the former Bournemouth man has long been a target.
But Frank Lampard was the favourite to take over following extensive talks with Palace chiefs before, as revealed by this site, sensationally pulling out of the race yesterday.
A Celtic source has told Football Insider this latest twist has prompted fresh fears at the club that Palace could now push hard to lure Howe.
Chairman Steve Parish wants a new manager to tweak the system and implement a more attractive playing style as well as alter the mindset of players used to Hodgson’s more regimental methods.
Celtic had hoped to appoint Howe as soon as Bournemouth’s bid to secure promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs was complete.
The plan is for members of the Cherries’ coaching staff to rejoin Howe, and to link up in Glasgow for the Hoops’ pre-season.
Celtic reached a verbal agreement with the 43-year-old in London nearly two months ago and supporters have subsequently agonised while the process has dragged on.
There will be hope at Parkhead that Palace push hard for alternative targets including Barnsley boss Valerian Ismael.
But the latest twist in London will lead to more tension behind the scenes at Celtic.
In the latest news, Celtic have been told to sign EFL dazzler after he handed in transfer request.