Darren O’Dea is closing in on a move to Swansea City, with the Celtic pathways manager poised to become the new assistant to incoming boss Alan Sheehan.
The 38-year-old has been a key figure within the Celtic youth structure in recent years, helping guide the club’s emerging talent through the ranks as part of his role in player development. His work at Lennoxtown has not gone unnoticed, with Swansea now pushing to bring him on board as part of a revamped coaching team in South Wales.
Anthony Joseph reports that talks between O’Dea and the Championship side are understood to be at an advanced stage, with a deal expected to be finalised shortly. He would join former Ireland U21 teammate Sheehan, who is preparing to take the reins at Swansea following the club’s decision to make changes after a disappointing season.
O’Dea’s move would mark a return to the English game, where he previously spent time as a player with Reading, Leeds United and Ipswich Town. Since hanging up his boots, he’s built a strong coaching reputation at Celtic, particularly for his role in guiding the B team and assisting the transition of academy players into the senior set-up.
His departure would be a massive one for Celtic, with O’Dea highly regarded within the club’s backroom structure. Alongside Stephen McManus, he has played an integral part in shaping the next generation of players.
Should the deal go through, Celtic may need to act quickly to reshuffle their development coaching structure ahead of a summer that promises to be busy both on and off the pitch. For O’Dea, it’s an opportunity to test himself at a senior level in one of the most competitive leagues in Europe.
