Csaba Laszlo has been discussing rumours linking Robbie Keane to Celtic.
The Hungarian, who managed Ferencvaros himself, is known in Scotland for spells managing Hearts and Dundee United.
Keane has been named as the reported frontrunner for the Celtic hotseat this summer, though he has to claw back ground in the Hungarian title race before then.
Laszlo has been speaking to the Hungarian media about whispers surrounding Keane and Celtic as rumours continue to swirl.
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Csaba Laszlo: Champions League will influence Robbie Keane’s Celtic decision
Speaking to Ripost via the Daily Record, Laszlo said: “[Scott] Brown met Keane, which is not surprising, as they once played together at Celtic.
“He still has a good relationship with Brown, who became acquainted with Fradi’s football background as a student of the UEFA Pro-license coaching training, which is why he visited Budapest.”
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“You also need to know that the Scottish club is looking for a capable sports director.
“If the Celtic win the championship, they can start looking at the Champions League, which would bring significant financial income.
“That will fundamentally influence Keane’s future vision.”
Laszlo references Scott Brown and Jonny Hayes’ visit to Ferencvaros; the duo watched Keane’s side in the cup semi-final last week.
Both are familiar with Stephen Glass, Keane’s assistant in Budapest. Glass managed both of them at Aberdeen and played with Brown at Hibs.
Keane has openly discussed managing a ‘bigger club’ than Ferencvaros, leaving the door wide open to a potential summer exit.
He is also the current favourite with the bookmakers for the Crystal Palace job, so there could be competition for his services.
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Robbie Keane’s competition for permanent Celtic role
Keane would likely jump at the opportunity to manage Celtic, but despite being the reported frontrunner, he isn’t alone in the running.
Jens Berthel Askou has also been the bookmakers’ favourite for the hotseat. The Motherwell boss has earned rave reviews for delivering impressive results with a dominant brand of football.
Roberto Martinez and Ange Postecoglou both look like pie-in-the-sky options at this stage, whilst Craig Bellamy is expected to stay at Wales.
As for Martin O’Neill, a successful end to the season would inevitably create a widespread clamour for a permanent appointment, though he has hinted against this so far.
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