The question of whether Kelechi Iheanacho has a future at Celtic has been thrown back into the spotlight.

For weeks, there appeared to be growing optimism that the Nigerian striker could remain at Parkhead beyond the summer.

His late-season form was outstanding. When Martin O’Neill needed big moments, Iheanacho repeatedly delivered them.

From April onwards, he scored six goals in nine substitute appearances, including crucial winners against Dundee, Hibernian and Motherwell as Celtic stormed to an unlikely league and cup double.

Supporters quickly warmed to him.

The player himself also appeared keen to stay, recently posting a Scottish Cup celebration photo on social media with the caption: “My team.”

Yet a fresh report from Brazil has raised new questions.

According to TV channel Atenção Vascaínos, Iheanacho has been offered to Brazilian side Vasco da Gama.

The report claims the striker’s representatives explored the possibility of a move, although the outlet adds that the name was “not appealing” to Vasco and discussions failed to progress. [SunSport]

Whether anything comes of the story remains to be seen.

Players and agents are often offered to clubs across multiple markets during transfer windows, particularly when contracts are approaching their end.

However, it does create some doubt.

If Iheanacho was certain of remaining at Celtic, it would seem unusual for alternative options to be explored elsewhere.

The reality may simply be that all parties are keeping their options open while awaiting a final decision.

Celtic still hold an option to extend the striker’s contract for another season.

That means the ball is largely in the club’s court.

Despite his goalscoring impact, fitness remained a concern throughout his spell in Glasgow. Not once since arriving last September did Iheanacho complete a full 90 minutes.

O’Neill carefully managed his minutes and used him primarily as a game-changing substitute.

The manager must now decide whether those fitness concerns outweigh the influence he had during the title run-in.

At the moment, there is no indication that a departure is imminent.

But reports of interest being tested elsewhere suggest the situation is far from resolved.

One thing is certain: supporters would be disappointed to see him leave.

After the way he finished the season, many feel Iheanacho earned the right to be part of Celtic’s plans next term.

Whether Celtic agree may become one of the more interesting decisions of the summer.