Martin O’Neill has admitted Celtic would struggle to cope if Callum McGregor were to leave for Saudi Arabia, but insists he is not concerned the club captain is going anywhere this month.
Reports have linked McGregor with a potential reunion with Brendan Rodgers, who recently took charge of Al-Qadsiah following his controversial departure from Parkhead.
Rodgers has already brought John Kennedy to the Saudi Pro League, with speculation suggesting McGregor could be offered a similar route out.
However, O’Neill believes such a move is highly unlikely. While acknowledging he has heard the rumours, the Celtic boss said it would come as a “major shock” if the 32-year-old were to leave Glasgow, adding that he has not even felt the need to raise the subject with the midfielder.
O’Neill admitted that losing McGregor would be both a shock and a disappointment, stressing the importance of the skipper to the squad. He is convinced the midfielder is enjoying his football at Celtic and sees no indication that a January exit is on the cards.
Speaking ahead of his third spell beginning against Dundee United this weekend, O’Neill also confirmed Celtic are working hard in the transfer market. While he appeared to rule out an emotional return for Kyogo, the manager made it clear reinforcements are a priority.
O’Neill said the club is “doing plenty of work” behind the scenes and acknowledged the need to strengthen the squad during the window. He added that Celtic are fully aware of the importance of adding players, particularly with rivals also expected to bolster their squads.
Reiterating his stance on McGregor, O’Neill said a move this window would be a “major shock” and insisted Celtic simply could not cope with losing such an influential figure.
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