Celtic’s managerial hunt has moved into a decisive moment, with RecordSport reporting that Wilfried Nancy is now deep in discussions to become the club’s next boss.

The Columbus Crew head coach has been the preferred option from the very start, with Dermot Desmond personally driving the pursuit after Brendan Rodgers’ sudden exit last month.

Desmond reportedly initially held back out of respect for Columbus’ MLS campaign, but once their play-off run ended, Celtic began pushing forward. Talks are expected to take place this weekend, and the club are hopeful the deal can move quickly enough for Nancy to be in the dugout when the Premiership resumes against St Mirren.

Despite being under contract until at least the end of 2026, those close to the situation in the US believe Columbus won’t throw up major barriers. A compensation figure between £1m and £2m is thought to be enough to release him, and Nancy is understood to be open to making the move to Glasgow.

A key part of the negotiations will centre on his backroom team. Nancy is known for surrounding himself with people he trusts, and assistant Kwame Ampadu is expected to follow him if an agreement is reached.

Football – Exeter City Photo Call , Stock Season 00/01
Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Brandon Malone
Exeter City’s Kwame Ampadu

That naturally raises questions about the existing staff at Lennoxtown, including Shaun Maloney and long-standing goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods, whose futures could hinge on how the final structure is shaped.

For Celtic, all signs point in one direction. Nancy has been the priority from day one, and with momentum building on all sides, the club now look closer than ever to securing their next permanent manager.