Celtic have made an initial enquiry over James Penrice.
The former Hearts defender has made 33 appearances since completing a £2 million move to AEK Athens last summer.
Martin O’Neill is in need of reinforcements at left-back having missed out on securing Marcelo Saracchi on a permanent basis.
Penrice represents an affordable homegrown option.
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Celtic make enquiry for James Penrice
Ben Jacobs of talkSPORT was first to report that Celtic have enquired over the 27-year-old, who has two years remaining on his contract.
No valuation has been named for the defender.
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Penrice could expect similar minutes at Celtic to what he’s been getting in Greece, as well as the opportunity to win trophies.
A product of the academy at Partick Thistle, he made over 100 appearances for the Jags before joining Livingston in 2021.
His major breakthrough came in his only season at Hearts in 2024-25, when he was named the club’s Player of the Year.
Saracchi spent much of last season as backup to Kieran Tierney, though given the latter’s injury record, his role in the squad remained important.
The Uruguayan defender wrote on Instagram on Friday: “Dear Celtic fans, I’m writing this to say goodbye.
“We had an intense, beautiful year together where we achieved so many of our goals.
“My agent and I did absolutely everything within our power to make a return to Glasgow happen.
“I’m truly gutted that I won’t be able to continue at the club at this stage of my career. However, I know our paths will cross again in the future.
“I wish you all nothing but the best for what’s ahead.
“Thank you for everything.”
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