Rangers hit by Dan Neil transfer setback as rivals jump the queue for Sunderland star

Rangers’ hopes of landing Dan Neil have taken a significant hit after Championship rivals Ipswich Town surged ahead in the race to sign the Sunderland midfielder.

The Black Cats star has been identified as a key target by Rangers head coach Danny Rohl as he looks to strengthen his squad during the January transfer window. However, Record Sport understands Ipswich have moved decisively in recent days and are now leading the chase for the 24-year-old after making concrete advances over the weekend.

Neil, a product of Sunderland’s academy and a lifelong supporter of the club, has also attracted interest from Premier League side West Ham United. The Hammers were in action against Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland side on Saturday, running out 3-1 winners, but Ipswich appear to be firmly in pole position. Managed by former Manchester United coach Kieran McKenna, the Portman Road outfit are flying high in the Championship and are keen to add further quality as they push for promotion.

Talks surrounding Neil’s future have progressed to the point where the midfielder was left out of Sunderland’s squad for their clash at the London Stadium, a move widely seen as an indication that negotiations are ongoing behind the scenes. Ipswich’s proactive approach has put them ahead of both Rangers and West Ham in the battle for his signature.

Neil enjoyed a memorable campaign last season, captaining his boyhood club to promotion after Sunderland triumphed over Sheffield United in the play-off final. His leadership and consistency in midfield made him a fan favourite on Wearside. However, his situation has changed this term, with increased competition limiting his opportunities. The arrival of Granit Xhaka has seen Neil slip down the pecking order, and with his contract set to expire in the summer, the midfielder is now keen to secure a move that will guarantee regular first-team football.

Rangers had registered their interest earlier in the month, with initial contact made through Sunderland’s director of football, Florent Ghisolfi. Rohl, who is eager to put his own stamp on the squad at Ibrox, views Neil as a player capable of adding energy, leadership and ball progression to the middle of the park.

The Gers have already bolstered their midfield options by bringing in Tochi Chukwuani, but injuries have complicated matters. Connor Barron is currently sidelined, leaving Rohl keen to add another central midfielder before the window closes. Neil was seen as an ideal candidate, combining experience at Championship level with the potential to develop further.

Despite Rangers’ interest, Ipswich’s momentum in negotiations now looks difficult to halt. Their status as promotion contenders, combined with the prospect of regular starts, appears to be a major pull for Neil as he weighs up his next move. With time ticking down in the transfer window, Rangers may be forced to turn their attention elsewhere if Ipswich succeed in getting a deal over the line.

West Ham remain in the background, monitoring developments, but the London club are currently behind Ipswich in the race. While Premier League football would undoubtedly be attractive, Ipswich’s clear pathway to first-team action could prove decisive.

For Rangers, missing out on Neil would be a blow, particularly given Rohl’s desire to add depth and quality to his midfield options during a crucial stage of the season. The German coach may now have to accelerate plans to identify alternative targets who can fill the void and provide cover while Barron remains unavailable.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Ipswich’s aggressive move has shifted the balance of power away from Ibrox, leaving Rangers facing the likelihood of disappointment in their pursuit of the Sunderland man. With Neil keen to resolve his future swiftly and Sunderland open to discussions due to his contract situation, clarity is expected soon.

Unless there is a late twist, Rangers’ focus may soon turn to contingency plans, while Ipswich look to capitalise on their advantage and add a proven Championship performer to their promotion-chasing squad.

Callum McGregor explains why Wilfried Nancy’s Celtic reign struggled

Callum McGregor has offered a thoughtful and revealing insight into why Wilfried Nancy’s time at Celtic failed to gain traction, stressing that the issue was less about ideas and more about timing and circumstance.

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Rangers manager Danny Rohl celebrates after the match as Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy looks dejected REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Rangers manager Danny Rohl hugs Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy after the match REUTERS/Lee Smith

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy looks dejected after Rangers’ Mikey Moore scores their third goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy looks dejected after Rangers’ Mikey Moore scores their third goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy looks dejected after Rangers’ Mikey Moore scores their third goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy looks dejected after Rangers’ Mikey Moore scores their third goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy speaks to Liam Scales REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy reacts REUTERS/Lee Smith

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy and Rangers manager Danny Rohl react REUTERS/Lee Smith

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy looks dejected after Rangers’ Youssef Chermiti scores their second goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy reacts REUTERS/Lee Smith

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Police officers are pictured as Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy reacts REUTERS/Lee Smith

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Police officers are pictured as Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy reacts REUTERS/Lee Smith

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Celtic v Rangers – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – January 3, 2026 Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy reacts REUTERS/Lee Smith

Nancy arrived in Glasgow with fresh concepts and a contrasting football philosophy, but the environment he stepped into was unforgiving. Celtic were already deep into a relentless run of fixtures, leaving little opportunity to pause, reflect, or properly embed new methods. Instead of gradual implementation on the training ground, players were forced to adapt in competitive matches where pressure was constant and margins were razor-thin.

From McGregor’s perspective, the problem was never a lack of commitment or willingness from the squad. Rather, Celtic had been shaped by a clearly defined style of play for more than a decade, and that identity was suddenly disrupted. Changing direction so sharply, and doing so mid-season, made the task extremely difficult. At a club where expectations are sky-high and every game carries weight, even small uncertainties can have a significant impact.

As captain, McGregor became acutely aware of how the mood within the dressing room began to change. Confidence, a vital ingredient for success at elite level, started to erode as results failed to follow. Once belief begins to waver, performances inevitably suffer, and that cycle can be hard to break. His reflections highlight just how quickly momentum can shift at a club like Celtic when results and clarity disappear.

Speaking to Sky Sports, McGregor explained that the scale and speed of the tactical shift proved challenging. Celtic had long been a team built on aggressive pressing and playing on the front foot, applying pressure high up the pitch to limit defensive work closer to their own goal. Moving away from that approach required not just tactical understanding, but time—something that simply wasn’t available.

McGregor acknowledged that alternative systems can work, but emphasised the reality of the situation Nancy inherited. There was no pre-season to prepare, no extended training blocks to drill patterns, and a calendar packed with crucial matches every few days. Players were effectively learning in real time, under the harsh spotlight that comes with playing for Celtic, where mistakes are magnified and patience is scarce.

Trying to absorb new ideas in such an environment placed enormous strain on the squad. According to McGregor, learning on the pitch rather than on the training ground is about as tough as it gets in football. When results don’t come quickly, doubt creeps in, and once confidence dips, it affects every aspect of performance. He was candid in admitting that footballers are human, and repeated setbacks inevitably take a psychological toll.

McGregor’s comments paint a picture of a group caught between systems while still being asked to deliver results. The relentless schedule left no room for experimentation or gradual adjustment, making it difficult for players to fully trust what they were being asked to do. In that sense, the situation became unsustainable.

Since that period, Celtic have focused on re-establishing stability and rediscovering familiar principles. Clear roles, trusted methods, and a sense of identity have helped steady the ship. The contrast underlines just how important continuity and clarity are at the highest level of the game.

Importantly, McGregor’s reflections are measured and respectful. He avoids personal criticism, instead offering a broader explanation rooted in context and realism. His words reflect leadership and an understanding of how elite football environments operate. In doing so, he provides clarity on why the experiment struggled, without resorting to blame, and reinforces the value of timing, trust, and stability in sustaining success at Celtic.

Pat Bonner blasts Reo Hatate after costly Celtic red card in Bologna clash

Pat Bonner delivered a stinging assessment of Reo Hatate after the Celtic midfielder was sent off in dramatic fashion during the Hoops’ Europa League clash with Bologna, branding the incident unnecessary and damaging to the team.

Hatate had begun the evening in Italy as Celtic’s standout performer. The Japan international gave Brendan Rodgers’ side the perfect start when he found the net inside the opening minutes, putting the visitors 1-0 ahead and momentarily silencing the home crowd. His early strike had Celtic firmly in control of the tie and full of confidence.

However, that momentum was undone before the half-hour mark by a reckless spell that turned the match on its head. Within the space of five chaotic minutes, Hatate collected two yellow cards, the second of which resulted in a red card just before the interval. The dismissal left Celtic with ten men and facing an uphill battle in a hostile environment.

Speaking during BBC Sportsound’s live coverage, former Celtic goalkeeper and club legend Pat Bonner did not mince his words as he reacted to Hatate’s sending-off. Having reviewed the replay, Bonner made it clear he believed the midfielder had only himself to blame.

Bonner explained that Hatate had lashed out at an opponent and made contact, describing the action as completely unnecessary. He stressed that the midfielder had already been cautioned only minutes earlier and should have known better than to take any risks. In Bonner’s view, the incident showed a lack of composure and awareness at a critical moment in the match.

The former Ireland international labelled the behaviour “so silly,” pointing out that Celtic were in a strong position at 1-0 up and did not need any self-inflicted problems. He argued that Hatate’s actions placed enormous pressure on his teammates, forcing them to defend their lead with a numerical disadvantage against a fired-up Bologna side.

Bonner also made it clear that there was no one else to blame for the situation. He questioned what Hatate was thinking, suggesting that the midfielder failed to consider the consequences of his actions. While some might look to scrutinise the referee, Bonner conceded that the official had little choice given the circumstances.

Although the challenge was not worthy of a straight red card, Bonner acknowledged that it was clearly a booking. And with Hatate already in the referee’s notebook, the second yellow inevitably meant an early shower. Bonner stressed that experienced players must recognise when they are walking a disciplinary tightrope and avoid doing anything that could harm the team.

He highlighted how the sending-off instantly shifted the atmosphere inside the stadium. With Celtic reduced to ten men, the Bologna crowd sensed an opportunity, raising the noise levels and pushing their team forward in the hope of getting back into the contest. Bonner warned that the final moments of the half would be crucial as Celtic attempted to weather the storm.

Despite the setback, Celtic showed impressive resilience. Rather than retreating completely, the Scottish champions dug deep and refused to let the red card define the remainder of the half. Their discipline and organisation frustrated Bologna, and remarkably, the Hoops managed to strike again just before the break.

On the stroke of half-time, defender Auston Trusty rose to the occasion and doubled Celtic’s advantage, scoring to make it 2-0 despite the numerical disadvantage. The goal was a huge boost for Rodgers’ side and a testament to their character under pressure.

While the second goal softened the blow of Hatate’s dismissal, Bonner’s criticism remained firm. The former Celtic star made it clear that such moments of indiscipline can be costly at European level, where margins are fine and mistakes are often punished ruthlessly.

Hatate’s night ultimately became a tale of extremes — from early heroics to a moment of rash decision-making that could have derailed Celtic’s progress. Although the team responded admirably, Bonner’s message was unmistakable: players must keep their discipline, especially when already booked, to avoid putting their teammates in unnecessary danger.

Celtic now eyeing ambitious move to sign £10.5m Bundesliga star after Cvancara

Celtic are continuing to explore options in the transfer market as they push to strengthen their squad before the January window closes, with reports suggesting the club are now tracking RB Leipzig midfielder Xaver Schlager following progress on a deal for Tomas Cvancara.

According to German outlet 4-4-2, the Scottish champions have identified Schlager as a potential addition as they look to reinforce their midfield ahead of a decisive phase of the season. Celtic’s recruitment drive has gathered momentum in recent days, driven by the desire to reel in Hearts at the top of the Scottish Premiership and build a squad capable of sustaining a title challenge.

So far, Celtic’s January business has been relatively quiet in terms of confirmed arrivals. Julian Araujo remains the only player officially through the door, having joined on loan from Bournemouth. However, the Hoops have also reached an agreement with Borussia Mönchengladbach to bring Czech striker Tomas Cvancara to Glasgow on a loan deal until the end of the campaign, with an option to make the move permanent in the summer. With that deal edging closer, attention may now shift to strengthening other areas of the pitch before the February 2 deadline.

Uncertain future for Schlager at Leipzig

Schlager’s situation at RB Leipzig has sparked interest from several clubs across Europe. The Austria international, who has earned 49 caps for his country, is entering the final months of his contract, which is due to expire at the end of the season. Leipzig signed him from Wolfsburg in 2022 for a fee of around €12 million (£10.5m), but there has been little progress on extending his stay at the Red Bull Arena.

As a result, the 28-year-old could be set to leave on a free transfer in the summer, making him an attractive option for clubs seeking a proven midfielder without a significant transfer fee. Reports suggest that Leipzig may even be open to selling Schlager during the current window for a reduced price of around £4 million, rather than risk losing him for nothing.

Schlager has found opportunities harder to come by this season, featuring in 13 Bundesliga matches and scoring twice during the 2025–26 campaign. Despite his reduced role, his experience at both club and international level continues to make him a sought-after figure. Italian heavyweights Juventus and Roma have both been credited with an interest, underlining the level of competition Celtic could face should they pursue a deal.

Arne Engels connection adds intrigue

Adding another layer to the situation is reported interest from Leipzig in Celtic midfielder Arne Engels. According to 4-4-2, the Bundesliga club are monitoring Engels as a possible replacement for Schlager, should the Austrian depart either now or in the summer.

Celtic broke their transfer record in 2024 to sign Engels for £11 million, and while the Belgian has delivered solid numbers—registering 14 goals and 18 assists across 85 appearances—debate continues among supporters about whether he has fully justified his price tag. If Leipzig were to formalise their interest, Celtic would likely demand a substantial fee to recoup a significant portion of their original outlay.

The potential overlap between Schlager and Engels could open the door to creative negotiations, whether through separate deals or a broader reshaping of both clubs’ midfields. However, any decision to part with Engels would be a major call for Celtic, particularly given the timing and the club’s ambitions for the remainder of the season.

Forward line still under review

While Cvancara’s arrival would address one area of need, Celtic are not expected to halt their search for attacking reinforcements. The club have been linked with a host of strikers throughout the window as they seek to add goals and depth to the squad.

Chelsea’s David Datro Fofana and Lorient forward Mohamed Bamba are among the names most frequently mentioned in recent reports. Both players fit the profile of attackers who could bolster Celtic’s options, either immediately or as part of a longer-term strategy.

Leeds United striker Joel Piroe has also emerged as a potential target. It is understood that Celtic have held discussions regarding the Dutch forward, who would be open to a move to Celtic Park if an agreement could be reached between the clubs. However, Piroe is not actively pushing for an exit from Elland Road, and the situation is complicated by Leeds’ ownership structure, with the 49ers group also in control at Rangers. That connection makes any deal between the clubs far from straightforward.

Busy final weeks expected

With just days remaining in the transfer window, Celtic are expected to remain active as they attempt to address key areas of the squad. Securing Cvancara would represent a significant step, but the potential interest in Schlager highlights the club’s intention to look beyond the forward line and strengthen in midfield as well.

Whether Celtic can navigate competition from Europe’s top leagues, balance their own outgoing interest, and complete further deals in time remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the Hoops are preparing for a decisive end to the window as they aim to give themselves the best possible platform for success in the second half of the season.

Celtic eye shock free transfer swoop for Liverpool ace

Celtic are reportedly monitoring Andy Robertson’s contract situation at Liverpool as speculation grows that the Scotland international could become available on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The 31-year-old left-back is approaching the final months of his deal at Anfield, and there is increasing belief within football circles that Liverpool may allow him to depart without a fee once his contract expires. While the Premier League giants have not completely ruled out the possibility of offering new terms, uncertainty remains over whether an extension will be agreed.

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown has suggested that Celtic would be keen to explore a move should Robertson become available, although they are unlikely to be alone in the race for his signature. Speaking to Football Insider, Brown claimed that Martin O’Neill’s side would “love” to bring the defender to Parkhead, but warned that interest from clubs across Europe could complicate any potential deal.

Robertson, who has been a key figure for Liverpool since joining from Hull City in 2017, is thought to be considering a fresh challenge away from the Premier League as he enters the latter stages of his career. Several European sides are understood to be keeping close tabs on his situation, with the prospect of signing a proven international performer on a free transfer proving particularly attractive.

Interest in the full-back is not new. Atletico Madrid were strongly linked with a move for Robertson during the summer transfer window, but negotiations failed to progress before the deadline passed. Despite that, the Spanish giants are believed to remain admirers, while other clubs across the continent are also monitoring developments.

Football Insider reported in late October that Liverpool had yet to reach an agreement with Robertson over a contract extension, although there was still hope at the club that fresh terms could be finalised. However, the emergence of Milos Kerkez as a preferred option at left-back has fuelled speculation that Liverpool are preparing for life beyond Robertson, with many expecting the club to move in a new direction.

Brown believes the signs point towards an exit from Anfield, suggesting Liverpool may feel the time is right to part ways after years of outstanding service. He explained that the club appear to have enjoyed the best years of Robertson’s career and are now planning for the future, with Kerkez viewed as a long-term solution in the position.

The former scout also suggested that a return to Scotland could appeal to Robertson at this stage of his career. Having started his professional journey north of the border before moving to England, the chance to play at home again, particularly for a club competing regularly for trophies, could be an attractive proposition.

According to Brown, Robertson would be an excellent fit for Celtic, both in terms of quality and experience. While left-back is not currently seen as a priority position for the Hoops, the opportunity to sign a player of Robertson’s calibre on a free transfer would be difficult to ignore. His leadership, winning mentality and consistency at the highest level could prove invaluable, particularly in European competition.

However, any move would not be straightforward. Brown warned that Celtic would face stiff competition from other clubs, especially those in Europe who could offer different challenges and potentially higher wages. Despite that, he believes Robertson would thrive back in Scotland and could be tempted by the idea of returning to his home country to close out his career.

Elsewhere, Martin O’Neill is hoping for a busy conclusion to the January transfer window as Celtic look to strengthen their squad in key areas. So far, the club have completed just one signing this month, despite the interim manager’s desire to add more depth and quality as they push for another SPFL title.

Reports earlier in January suggested O’Neill is particularly keen to bring in a new striker and a centre-back before the window shuts, with both positions identified as areas of concern. Injuries to key players such as Kelechi Iheanacho and Cameron Carter-Vickers have only increased the urgency, forcing the club to explore potential replacements.

Sources close to the situation claim Celtic are working intensively behind the scenes to identify suitable targets, with the aim of adding “top-class” reinforcements before the end of the month. Although progress has been slower than hoped, there is optimism that O’Neill will receive backing from the club hierarchy in the final weeks of the window.

Against that backdrop, the possibility of a future move for Andy Robertson adds another intriguing layer to Celtic’s long-term planning. While any deal would likely be one for the summer rather than January, the prospect of bringing a high-profile Scotland international back to the SPFL is already generating significant interest and debate among supporters.