The former Hearts player is now linked to Celtic after Rangers rumours emerged.
Celtic are set to resurrect their interest in a former Hearts star after Rangers rumours surrounded the defender, it’s claimed.
The Hoops had interest in left-back James Penrice after his standout campaign for the Jambos during term 24/25. He eventually signed for AEK Athens in Greece last summer and helped them to title glory in the 25/26 season. Talk of a return home has surfaced with Rangers prominently linked during this transfer window.
Now Celtic are being mentioned after the Premiership champions failed to agree a deal with Boca Juniors for Marcelo Saracchi. It now leaves them scrambling to find cover for Kieran Tierney, but while Rangers interest is not likely to amount to anything, Celtic are ready to put the former Hearts man back on their menu.
What former Hearts star could sign for Celtic this summer?
Greek football insider Antonis Oikonomides told Sport 24: “Rangers have always been a constant, unchanging focal point within this circle of Penrice’s admirers. I didn’t see it happening when we were discussing it during the previous transfer window, I didn’t see it before this one even started, and I don’t see it now that the Rangers name has resurfaced.
“The player’s side denies it, maintaining that there is absolutely nothing with Rangers. What is clear is that Rangers are not interested. So, for goodness’ sake, just so I’m not misunderstood or say anything out of line, it’s being said that there is no interest from Rangers – and that there still isn’t – for Penrice.
“There is an open door, a small window of opportunity for Celtic. Let me remind you that Celtic wanted him before he came to AEK from Hearts. Because he is on a list for Celtic, who are looking for a player in that position, that’s worth keeping an eye on.”
Who could Celtic sign this summer?
It could be another of Hearts’ rivals that Celtic raid instead as Dundee United left-back Will Ferry is also an option after he turned down a £1.7m move to the Czech Republic. The Courier state: “Dundee United star Will Ferry is on Celtic’s radar as the Scottish champions seek to bolster their options at left-back, Courier Sport understands. The Hoops have missed out on the permanent signing of Uruguayan defender Marcelo Saracchi, who impressed on loan last season – as confirmed by the player on Instagram.
“As such, Celtic remain keen to secure competition for Scotland international Kieran Tierney. And Ferry is among the targets being considered. It is understood Parkhead scout Tosh McKinlay has watched the Ireland international in person on several occasions, including his sensational display in United’s 3-0 win over Dundee in March, during which he scored two and teed up the other.”
