Iheanacho: Celtic May Offer Super Eagles Forward a New Contract for Three Key Reasons

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho may be poised for a longer stay at Scottish champions Celtic, according to Afrik‑Foot.

The former Leicester City forward signed for the Hoops on a free transfer last summer after a difficult spell at Sevilla. He joined the Spanish club in the summer of 2024 but spent the second half of the season on loan at Middlesbrough in the English Championship, struggling to settle.

Iheanacho began the season brightly at Celtic, but injuries disrupted his progress. At one point it seemed unlikely the club would offer him a contract extension, as fitness concerns prompted them to consider moving on.

He eventually returned to full fitness and rediscovered his scoring touch, netting several key goals that helped Celtic win both the league title and the domestic cup double.

Kelechi Iheanacho with the Scottish Cup trophy. Copyright: xJamiexJohnstonxImago

His late‑season revival has reopened talks about a possible extension. Celtic hold an option to extend his contract by a further year, and several key factors could now influence that decision.

Daizen Maeda’s future could shape Iheanacho’s role

Japanese striker Daizen Maeda has been Celtic’s first‑choice centre‑forward since joining the club in 2022, playing a pivotal role ahead of other forwards.

The 28‑year‑old may have already played his final game for the club after expressing a desire to move to the Premier League this summer.

During an interview after Celtic’s cup win last month, he revealed his eagerness to take on a new challenge after four years in Scotland, putting the likes of Fulham and other clubs on high alert.

Daizen Maeda during the Scottish Cup Final between Celtic and Dunfermline Athletic. Copyright: xJamiexJohnstonxImago

“Right now, I’m grateful to Celtic and I’m giving it my all. But I haven’t seen my limits yet,” Maeda said. “The Premier League is a dream I’ve had since I was a kid. Even if it’s just for one year, I want to prove myself at the highest level.”

If Maeda departs, Celtic would be short on attacking options. Even if the club signs reinforcements, they may be reluctant to lose another experienced forward in the same window, a situation that could strongly favour Iheanacho staying beyond the summer.

It could also open the door to a more consistent role next season, especially if a new signing is brought in to learn from his experience.

Martin O’Neill’s permanent role

Veteran manager Martin O’Neill, who previously managed Celtic between 2000 and 2005, initially returned in an interim capacity after Brendan Rodgers’ resignation last October.

Celtic coach Martin O’Neill. Copyright: IMAGO

He was called upon again after Wilfried Nancy was dismissed and ultimately guided the club to league and cup success last season. O’Neill has now agreed to remain as the club’s permanent manager, which could directly affect Iheanacho’s future.

The Northern Irishman has previously expressed admiration for the Nigerian forward, and his backing could prove decisive in pushing for an extension.

Late‑season form could also prove decisive

Although Iheanacho struggled early in the season due to injuries and a lack of match fitness, his performances in the final stretch improved his chances of an extension at the club.

He finished the campaign with nine goals across all competitions, six of which came in the final nine matches. His late surge included decisive contributions, such as a brace in the 6–2 win over St Mirren in the Scottish Cup semifinal and another solo goal in the final win over Dunfermline Athletic.

Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic. Copyright: ImagoxJamiexJohnston

What made his impact even more notable was that many of his goals came off the bench, while he did not have a proper pre‑season with the club, having joined them at the start of the season. With a full pre‑season behind him, there is a strong belief he could deliver even more next season.

While Iheanacho is open to extending his stay, a final decision on his future is yet to be made, as Celtic hold the call to decide whether to continue their relationship with the Nigerian forward beyond this summer.