BRUCE ARENA last night told Celtic chiefs: Wilfried Nancy would be perfect for you.
SunSport revealed the Columbus Crew coach is currently the front-runner to replace Brendan Rodgers as permanent boss.
And former USA gaffer Arena reckons he would be a big hit.
Arena told SunSport: “He’s a very organised and disciplined coach.
“His team is very possession oriented, attacks with numbers, very disciplined.
“I think he’d be a very good fit for Celtic in the Scottish league.
“He’s regarded as a top-tier coach here. He’s done a very good job for Columbus and is well respected.
“I think he can make the adjustment and be a very good fit in the Premiership.”
Crew’s season is over following their MLS play-off defeat to Cincinnati, but 48-year-old Nancy remains under contract.
Last year’s MLS Coach of the Year has been targeted by major shareholder Dermot Desmond and head of football operations Paul Tisdale.
Tisdale is close friends with Columbus No 2 Kwame Ampadu.
It’s almost certain he would join Frenchman Nancy in Glasgow if a deal is reached.
Ange Postecoglou was a trailblazer for Australian coaches when he landed the Celtic job in 2021.
San Jose Earthquakes boss Arena — the only man to lead USA to two World Cups and winner of five MLS Cups — is convinced Nancy could provide a similar boost for American coaches.
The 74-year-old former DC United, New York Red Bulls, LA Galaxy and New England Revolution boss added: “I believe it would be fantastic for the reputation of MLS coaches.
“Many years ago, coaches in MLS were not respected, especially American and Canadian coaches. Now they get interest from clubs all around the world.
“Wilfried Nancy being appointed by Celtic would be great.”
Bodo/Glimt’s Kjetil Knutsen remains in the frame for the job, along with Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna.
It’s understood Irishman McKenna would likely be too expensive to bring north with a £5million compensation price tag.
Club Brugge gaffer Nicky Hayen has also been linked with the post.
Interim boss Martin O’Neill is scheduled to have talks with Desmond to determine his future.
The 73-year-old could yet remain in charge, with the Hoops next in action against St Mirren a week on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Celtic’s top scout Jay Lefevre is quitting the club — weeks before the January window. He has handed in his notice after being poached by Swansea City.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
