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Scottish giants Celtic are still navigating a murky managerial situation after Martin O’Neill’s interim stint came to an end, with the club now locked in conversations over a permanent appointment.
According to Sky Sports, Celtic principal shareholder Dermot Desmond met with both O’Neill and former Liverpool striker Robbie Keane this week to discuss the vacancy.
Keane – who spent a brief spell at Anfield in 2008 after joining from Tottenham Hotspur – has already emerged as the frontrunner should O’Neill remove himself from the running.
It is a busy time at Parkhead, then. And now comes news that they may have to accept the departure of one of their most exciting young talents.
The Daily Record are reporting that sixteen-year-old centre-back Dara Jikiemi has turned down a contract offer from Celtic, with the defender instead wanting to make the move to Liverpool.
The Reds have been tracking Jikiemi since at least late 2025, with Liverpool scouts reportedly watching the youngster on multiple occasions throughout the season.
The interest is hardly a surprise given the player’s profile. Jikiemi captains Scotland at both Under-15 and Under-16 level and has established himself as one of the most promising defenders to emerge from north of the border in years.
He is predominantly a centre-back but has also demonstrated the ability to operate in defensive midfield.
The Daily Record report:
“Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest have all expressed interest in the talented teenage defender.”
“Liverpool have been in the mix for several months and are favourites to secure a deal.”
Under Premier League scholarship rules, Jikiemi will sign a scholarship deal with Liverpool until he turns 17 in January.
He would expected to join Liverpool’s Under-18 side when he officially links up with the club. following in the footsteps of Ben Gannon-Doak, who made a similar move from Celtic Park to Anfield as a teenager before going on to join Bournemouth.