Celtic are gearing up for a summer bid to secure Burnley defender Dara O’Shea. The Scottish champions have their sights firmly set on the Republic of Ireland international, with manager Brendan Rodgers eager to bolster his squad for a formidable Champions League campaign.

The Bhoys have made preliminary inquiries to the Clarets, but the transfer remains in the balance. Burnley shelled out £7 million for O’Shea from West Bromwich Albion just last year, and it would take a significant offer for them to consider selling. A source close to Burnley told Record Sport, “O’Shea remains a key player for our club.”

They also hinted that any decision on Celtic’s approach would likely be delayed until Burnley appoints a new manager or head coach. The club has been in a managerial limbo since Vincent Kompany departed for Bayern Munich and is currently navigating the recruitment process.

O’Shea was pivotal for Burnley in the Premier League last season. Whether they will opt to cash in on the 25-year-old or retain him to bolster their Championship promotion bid remains to be seen.

Rising through the ranks at West Bromwich Albion before moving to Turf Moor, the Irish international potential move to Celtic would bring fresh competition to the backline.

Last season, Celtic often relied on Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales. Despite signing Gustaf Lagerbielke, the defender struggled to secure a spot in the first team, as did Maik Nawrocki. Both players could find themselves leaving the club this summer if the right bids come in. Stephen Welsh is in front of both in the pecking order.

You have to wonder what it would take for Celtic to bring Dara in if Burnley paid £7m for the 26 time capped centre-back.

Celtic have yet to make a signing this summer. Surely with their US Tour right around the corner, they need to start upping their game.