Celtic are not the only club interested in appointing Robbie Keane this summer – but one rival in the race now appears ready to move in a different direction.
Keane has rapidly become one of the leading names linked with the vacant Celtic manager’s position following his departure from Ferencváros.
Reports this week suggested Dermot Desmond now views the former Republic of Ireland captain as his preferred candidate ahead of Martin O’Neill.
However, Celtic have not been alone in tracking the 45-year-old.
ŠK Slovan Bratislava were also pursuing Keane after publicly approaching him last month following his resignation in Hungary.
But fresh reports now suggest the Slovak champions are close to appointing an alternative candidate instead – and it is a major name.
According to Marca, former Manchester City midfielder Yaya Touré is now reportedly nearing the role despite never previously managing in senior football.
If that appointment is completed, it would effectively remove one competitor from the race for Keane’s signature and potentially strengthen Celtic’s position if the club decide to accelerate talks.
Keane remains one of the most divisive names linked with the Parkhead vacancy.
Supporters remain split over whether his managerial experience is strong enough for a club facing hugely important Champions League qualifiers and another major rebuild this summer.
Still, his relationship with Dermot Desmond is keeping him firmly at the centre of the conversation.
And with Slovan Bratislava now seemingly moving elsewhere, Celtic may find the path slightly clearer if they decide Keane is the man they want.
I have been a supporter for over 60 years but this is a step too far. If Keane is to become Celtic’s new manager, I will no longer support Celtic. This is not Desmond’s club, it is our club. I will not support a club run by one fraudulent stupid man who shows nothing but contempt for the supporters.