Celtic reportedly explored a January loan move for Manchester United youngster Shea Lacey before injury problems complicated any potential deal.
The update comes from Academy Scoop on X, who claimed Celtic held talks over a six-month move for the highly-rated winger during the winter window. French side Marseille were also reportedly interested.
Lacey is viewed as one of Manchester United’s best academy prospects.
The left-footed attacker has been highly rated for years at Old Trafford because of his dribbling, close control and ability to drift inside from wide areas. Injuries have interrupted his progress at times, but there is still huge excitement around him at youth level.
From Celtic’s perspective, the interest makes sense.
At the time, the squad badly needed more creativity in wide areas. Injuries and inconsistency had hurt Celtic during the first half of the season and the club were clearly looking for players capable of adding something different in one-versus-one situations.
Lacey would also have fit the profile Celtic have increasingly targeted in recent years.
Young Premier League talents arriving on loan with high technical ability and resale potential have become a major part of recruitment thinking. The fact Marseille were also exploring a move probably tells you how highly the player is viewed across Europe despite his lack of senior football.
Ultimately though, nothing materialised.
Reports suggest the injury Lacey suffered during that period complicated discussions and prevented any deal progressing further.
The details emerged through claims made online regarding Celtic’s January transfer plans.
I understand approaches were made to sign Lacey on loan in January, which were complicated by an injury he suffered at the time.
Celtic in particular were keen on signing Lacey on a 6-month deal and held talks to explore a move. Marseille were among the other interested clubs. https://t.co/i4xTKxLZmO
— SCOOP. (@AcademyScoop) May 19, 2026
The interesting part now is whether Celtic revisit the situation this summer.
Lacey remains one of the brightest young attacking players in England and Manchester United still appear careful with his development because of previous injury setbacks.
Celtic meanwhile are expected to reshape parts of the squad again ahead of Champions League qualifiers.
Much may depend on who becomes manager permanently and whether the club still feel they need another wide player capable of carrying the ball aggressively in tight games.
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