Darren O’Dea has agreed terms with Swansea City to become their new assistant manager, bringing an end to his time with Celtic after several years in the club’s development setup. [Anthony Joseph]

The 38-year-old is expected to formally take up the role this summer, linking up with new Swans boss Alan Sheehan as the Championship side reshapes its backroom staff ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

O’Dea, a former Celtic defender, has been serving as the club’s professional player pathways manager, having previously managed the B Team and played a significant role in bridging the gap between youth and first-team football at Lennoxtown. His influence has been felt at all levels of the academy in recent seasons.

Speaking last week, Brendan Rodgers confirmed O’Dea had approached him about the potential move:

“He came to see me and get my thoughts on what that would be, what it would look like. Obviously, I know Swansea as a club and a city better than most… I think his heart is in coaching and maybe the possibility to manage later on.”

O’Dea’s departure will be a loss to Celtic’s academy structure, but represents a major step forward in his coaching career, returning to senior football in a competitive league with ambitions of promotion.

It’s a great opportunity to get into the men’s senior game and take steps forward in his won personal career.

He’ll be reunited with Sheehan as the pair aim to restore Swansea’s standing in the Championship.

Luka Modric owns a chunk of the club, with the Real Madrid midfielder hoping he can get the side back into ther Premier League.