Sources: Celtic plot 'ambitious' move to hire ex-PL manager as Martin O'Neill's successor

Celtic have set their sights on an ambitious move to appoint Thomas Frank as their next manager, sources have told Football Insider.

The former Tottenham boss was let go by the North London club in February as a result of their lowly league position, and they remain in a relegation battle.

A number of clubs across Europe are believed to be keen to lure the 52-year-old back into the dugout, and he remains very highly-rated in managerial circles.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Frank would need some convincing if he was to join Celtic this summer.

The board’s lack of backing for managers in recent years will be a concern, while they could also miss out on the league title, further complicating Celtic’s managerial search.

Could Thomas Frank take the Celtic job?

Football Insider reported on 24 April that odds on Celtic to appoint Frank were slashed, as it is becoming increasingly likely that he could take over at Parkhead.

However, his previous work in the Premier League with Brentford and Tottenham means the boss will have high expectations and demands for his next role.

Whether Celtic can match his ambitions remains to be seen after recent disappointments, but they are considering him as a top target in their pursuit.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Thomas Frank would be an ambitious target for Celtic as they search for a new manager.

“He’s obviously free and available now, having left Tottenham after a disappointing spell this season.

“Let’s see if Celtic are able to convince Frank to make the move there this summer.

“I would say it’s probably out of their reach right now because of the competition that will probably entail for Thomas Frank’s services.

“Frank, again, for Celtic he’s probably an ambitious target but probably one that’s out of their reach.”

Who else is on Celtic’s list of managerial targets?

Frank is not the only name being considered for the Celtic job, with a number of targets on their radar as they eye their next permanent appointment.

Martin O’Neill is preparing to step down from his interim role at the end of the season, and work has been ongoing behind the scenes to identify his replacement.

Football Insider revealed on 18 April that Roberto Martinez is a target for Celtic and they could look to appoint him after the World Cup.

His contract with the Portuguese FA is set to end after the tournament in North America, and the Hoops could explore the possibility of luring him to Scotland.

Martinez has previously been linked with the Celtic job, but could finally make the move as he is one of a number of candidates on their radar.

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