Celtic are hot on the trail of French goal machine Elias Filet but face serious competition for the striker's signature. Sky Sport reports that the Hoops have already held discussions with the FC Aarau hitman, who scored 22 goals last season.
Transfer Talks Underway
It is claimed that the Scottish champions held a video conference with the player's representative on Tuesday as they look to strike a contractual agreement before negotiating a deal with Filet's club. However, the Parkhead giants are not the only side keen on the towering 6ft 1in frontman, with Belgian outfit Genk already submitting an offer. French club FC Lorient have also been in contact with Filet's agent and are expected to solidify their interest this week.
New Manager on the Horizon
Celtic have yet to officially confirm their new manager, but Martin O'Neill is set to be appointed on a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months. O'Neill made it clear last season that the Double-winners would require more firepower and physicality in their squad, and Filet fits that profile. Filet was a standout in the Swiss Challenge League, dominating in the air while remaining clinical inside the penalty box. With just one year left on his deal, it seems almost certain that the Swiss Challenge League Player of the Year will move on this summer.
Other Squad Updates
Meanwhile, out-of-contract title-winners Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have yet to discover whether they have a future at Parkhead. Celtic did have an option to trigger a 12-month extension in their deals but could attempt to negotiate their wage packets. Iheanacho became a cult hero after rescuing the Hoops' title dreams with a flurry of late goals, while January arrival Oxlade-Chamberlain also netted two crucial winners on the way to five-in-a-row.
