Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has dropped the clearest signal yet that the club are actively exploring the possibility of re-signing striker Kelechi Iheanacho and left-back Marcelo Saracchi ahead of the new Scottish Premiership campaign.

O'Neill confirmed that chief executive Michael Nicholson "has spoken to" the agent representing Iheanacho, and added that "it's the same with" Saracchi — the closest thing to an official green light the club has given on either deal. Both players featured for Celtic last season and have been strongly linked with permanent returns to Parkhead throughout the summer window.

Iheanacho's case for a permanent deal

Iheanacho made a meaningful contribution during his time in Glasgow, netting nine goals across last season's campaign. The Nigerian forward's output gave the Celtic support genuine cause for optimism, and the noises out of the club suggest the interest is mutual. Whether a fee or terms can be agreed in time remains the key question.

Saracchi situation complicated by Boca Juniors

The situation around Uruguay international Saracchi is slightly more involved. The 28-year-old left-back is understood to have been made available for transfer by Boca Juniors, who are willing to sell. That opens a window for Celtic, though any deal would depend on agreeing a valuation with the Argentine giants. O'Neill has been careful not to confirm a done deal, but the fact Nicholson has engaged with representation on both fronts suggests Celtic's intent is genuine.

O'Neill was, however, unwilling to be drawn on reported interest in Reims midfielder Mory Gbane. The 25-year-old has been connected with a move to Glasgow in some quarters, but the Celtic boss offered nothing to fuel that particular speculation.

Rangers close in on Devlin following Hearts exit

Across the city, Rangers are stepping up their pursuit of free agent Cammy Devlin. The 28-year-old Australia midfielder has recently departed Hearts and has already taken to social media to thank the Tynecastle faithful for their support during his time at the club. Rangers are believed to be moving quickly to secure his signature, with Devlin available on a free — an attractive proposition for a side keen to strengthen without significant outlay.

Rangers also retain interest in Jens Hjerto-Dahl, with Tromso head coach Jorgen Vik indicating his club would sanction a departure if the right offer materialised.

Aberdeen profit on Keskinen sale

Elsewhere in Scottish football, Aberdeen have secured a fee in excess of £1m from Danish side Odense for winger Topi Keskinen. The 23-year-old Finland international moves on with the Dons standing to make a sizeable profit on their initial investment — a shrewd piece of business from Pittodrie.

Down in Dundee, head coach Steven Pressley has made clear the club are still in the market for another five or six players before the window closes, while Hearts' new head coach Wouter Vrancken is prioritising game time for his squad ahead of their Champions League qualifying tie against Sturm Graz. Meanwhile, Dundee United have accepted a bid from a Czech club for Republic of Ireland international Will Ferry, 25, though manager Jim Goodwin says the winger has "earned the right to explore all his options".

The market north of the border is moving quickly. Celtic's summer business — or lack of it — will go a long way to shaping their title credentials before a ball is kicked in earnest.

Frequently asked

Is Kelechi Iheanacho returning to Celtic permanently?
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed the club's chief executive has spoken to Iheanacho's agent, suggesting serious talks are under way, but no deal has been officially announced yet.
Why are Celtic interested in signing Marcelo Saracchi?
Saracchi impressed during his loan spell at Celtic last season and fits their need at left-back. Boca Juniors have made him available for transfer, which has opened the door for a permanent move to Glasgow.
Who is Cammy Devlin and why are Rangers interested?
Cammy Devlin is a 28-year-old Australian midfielder who has just left Hearts as a free agent. Rangers are reportedly keen because he is available at no transfer fee and adds competition in the middle of the park.