COLUMBUS CREW general manager Issa Tull has told Celtic to FORGET about a move for frontrunner Wilfried Nancy – because he’s “locked in” for the 2026 MLS campaign.
The pair have been speaking to the media Stateside today after Cincinnati knocked the Crew out of the MLS Cup play-offs.
We told you this week how Frenchman Nancy, 48, was at the very top of the Hoops’ wishlist to replace Brendan Rodgers as permanent manager.
The Columbus Crew boss is held in high regard by Paul Tisdale, who is leading the search for Rodgers’ successor.
Veteran ex-Hoops gaffer Martin O’Neill has stepped into steady the ship following Rodgers’ resignation – with a supporting cast which includes Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham.
It remains to be seen how long this state of affairs will last but the MLS outfit quietly extended Nancy’s contract with the Crew until 2027.
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And they will be due significant compensation IF the Hoops can persuade him to leave.
While Nancy himself refused to rule out crossing the pond to take over the Parkhead hotseat, the Crew GM warned the Hoops that Nancy is already “deep in discussions” about what happens in Ohio next season.
He said: “Wilfried is under contract.
“We’re in deep discussions about expanding the squad for next year, developing preseason plans, all that good stuff.”
Pressed on whether he could categorically RULE OUT a departure in the US offseason, Tull added: “What’s the future going to bring? … You never know.
“You have to be prepared for anything, but the way things are going, he’s locked in.”
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