Hearts and Celtic battle over Leonard transfer in 2026

Hearts and Celtic are competing for midfielder Marc Leonard as Rangers face a leadership review.

Hearts push for Leonard deal Heart of Midlothian are preparing to engage in discussions with Birmingham City regarding a permanent agreement for midfielder Marc Leonard. The 24-year-old is currently on loan at Hearts as the club aims to finalize a transfer before Celtic can complete their own deal. Birmingham City hold his registration rights, making them the key negotiators in the potential permanent move. The race between the two Scottish clubs intensifies as Hearts seek to secure Leonard’s services ahead of rivals. ## Celtic pursue Malouda signing Celtic have initiated early talks to sign forward Aaron Malouda from Azerbaijan’s Sabah FC. The 20-year-old French attacker has also attracted interest from Italian side Sampdoria, adding competition to the pursuit. Malouda’s potential move to Glasgow could strengthen Celtic’s attacking options as they aim to compete domestically and in Europe. The negotiations are still in preliminary stages, with no agreement yet in place. ## Keane hints at Ferencvaros future Robbie Keane has suggested he may remain at Ferencvaros in Hungary for the upcoming season. The experienced striker continues to be linked with the Celtic manager’s job, though no formal offer has been made. Keane’s comments come as speculation grows over his next career move, with Ferencvaros emerging as a strong contender to retain his services. His future could significantly impact both domestic and European ambitions for the Hungarian club. ## Rangers chairman reviews manager Rangers manager Danny Rohl faces a personal assessment from chairman Andrew Cavenagh following the club’s failure to secure a top-two finish in the Scottish Premiership. The review process will evaluate Rohl’s performance and future prospects at the Ibrox Stadium. Rangers’ ambitions for the current campaign appear at risk after falling short of early expectations. The outcome of the review could determine whether Rohl remains in charge for the months ahead. ## Rice eyes move to Villa Bailey Rice is expected to leave Rangers during the summer transfer window, with Aston Villa among the English top-flight clubs monitoring his progress. The 19-year-old midfielder has caught the attention of multiple Premier League sides, including Villa, as they explore potential squad reinforcements. Rice’s development at Rangers has drawn interest, though no agreement has been reached for his next destination. A transfer could provide him with increased first-team opportunities. ## Celtic miss out on El-Faouzi Celtic may fail to sign Soufiane El-Faouzi after Sunderland entered the competition to secure the 23-year-old midfielder from Schalke. The German club’s valuation of El-Faouzi has attracted interest from multiple bidders, complicating Celtic’s attempts to finalize a deal. The Scottish champions will need to act quickly if they wish to revive their pursuit of the midfielder. Sunderland’s involvement adds another layer of competition to the transfer saga. ## Dundee United extend Graham’s stay Dundee United have activated a one-year contract extension for defender Ross Graham, providing stability for the club’s defensive options. Graham is now set to continue discussions over a longer-term agreement at Tannadice Stadium. The extension reflects the club’s confidence in his abilities and long-term potential. The defender’s future at the club appears secure for at least the coming season. ## Olusanya open to Aberdeen return Toyosi Olusanya, currently on loan at Aberdeen from Houston Dynamo, has expressed willingness to extend his stay beyond this summer. The striker’s performances have impressed at Pittodrie, prompting talks over a possible permanent move. Olusanya’s availability on loan allowed Aberdeen to evaluate his suitability for their squad. The club may consider securing his services on a permanent basis if terms can be agreed.