Celtic open transfer 'talks' over target as fee haggling begins with Hoops holding 'ball in their court'

Celtic are said to have opened talks with one of their summer targets - but the terms of a deal appear difficult.

The Hoops will go into the new season under Martin O’Neill’s management after his two interim spells last season. He won the Premiership and Scottish Cup to unlock extended time in the dugout but who supports him with recruitment and coaching remains to be resolved. One player on his radar is left-back Marcelo Saracchi after he impressed on loan from Argentinian side Boca Juniors.

Claims emerging from The Celtic Way suggest the champions are seeking a deal for Saracchi but on a loan basis. A fee for a permanent deal is just over the seven-figure mark but it’s not something the club have immediately accepted and the left-back himself wants a permanent move if he is to leave Boca Juniors this summer.

Will Celtic sign Marcelo Saracchi this summer?

It’s claimed: “Celtic have opened talks to re-sign Marcelo Saracchi, it is understood. The left-back spent last season on loan at the Scottish Premiership champions, registering 27 appearances across all competitions. Saracchi impressed with his performances in a double-winning campaign, and The Celtic Way understands the club have opened talks to extend his stay in Glasgow's east end.

“Despite clamour for a permanent transfer, Celtic have expressed an initial desire to pursue a loan deal. But Saracchi, who has only 18 months remaining on his Boca Juniors contract, does not want another temporary move. Boca Juniors have told Celtic the Uruguayan is available for €1.5 million this summer and the ball is now in their court.”

O’Neill already has Kieran Tierney as his first choice left-back but Saracchi provided strong cover and could cover the Scotland international when needed. He said upon taking up the Celtic mantle again earlier this month: “It is once again a great privilege for me to continue as Celtic manager. Last season will live long in all our memories and to be part of that success has in a big way whetted the appetite to work again for more days like those and bring our supporters those moments.

Why has Martin O’Neill been named Celtic manager?

“Of course, none of this could have been achieved without the players and staff and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for bringing that level of focus, determination and talent to bear at the conclusion of the season to deliver the league and Cup double. I would particularly like to thank the Board for asking me back and giving me this opportunity again.

“We know of course that Celtic can never rest on past success so we are now aiming to drive forward together in the coming season as we aim to deliver again for the club and our fans. I thank our fans for their ongoing support, it means everything to us. I look forward to being back at Celtic Park next season when we will come together and we will strive again to bring our fans the success which that support deserves.”

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