Martin O’Neill has remained coy on recent reports linking Celtic with a move for Mory Gbane…
Stade Lavallois MFC v Stade de Reims – Ligue 2 BKT 2025/2026 24 Mory GBANE sdr during the Ligue 2 BKT match between Laval and Reims at Stade Francis Le Basser on April 10, 2026 in Laval, France. Laval France Photo: FEP/ IMAGO
The Ivorian midfielder was rumoured to be a potential candidate for a transfer to Paradise this summer window, after Foot Mercato claimed that the Bhoys, along with West Ham United and Turkish outfit Trabzonspor were “concretely interested” in him.
There are numerous links emerging every day now with players coming into Celtic Park this close season, however, nobody knows for certain who will arrive until it actually happens.
In the meantime, speculation and conjecture fills the rumourmill about who Martin O’Neill will decide to turn to, as he sets about rebuilding the club’s reputation at home and abroad this season.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has signed on for another year, whilst Camilo Duran has been signed from Azerbaijani outift Qarabag on a five-year deal, for a record-breaking £5.5 million.
Likewise, news continues to percolate about a dramatic return for both Kelechi Iheanacho and fellow Hoops hero from last year, Marcelo Saracchi. O’Neill admitted openly this week he would like to bring both men back to the club, whilst acknowledging deals are still some way off at present.
Whilst that rumbles on, the manager was quizzed on this recent link to Stade de Reims defensive-midfielder Mory Gbane, who very much fits the description of a Martin O’Neill-type player. Tall, strong, physical and athletic, Gbane can play in both midfield and defence and has amassed a wealth of experience so far in his career.
Stade Lavallois MFC v Stade de Reims – Ligue 2 BKT 2025/2026 24 Mory GBANE sdr during the Ligue 2 BKT match between Laval and Reims at Stade Francis Le Basser on April 10, 2026 in Laval, France. Laval France. Photo FEP/ IMAGO
Speaking about the possible interest and capture of the 25-year-old Ivorian powerhouse, O’Neill bizarrely said: “I haven’t read the things, but there are so many players that have been mentioned. Even my board members are saying, ‘Who are they?’ I just can’t keep confirming or denying every single player,” a perplexed O’Neill admitted via Glasgow Times.
Aye right you are Martin. But we love you regardless!
Paul Gillespie
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