McGregor keen to 'build something special' with O'Neill amid exit talk

Celtic captain Callum McGregor has stated his eagerness to 'build something special' with manager Martin O'Neill, amid persistent rumours regarding his future. The 33-year-old midfielder, who has been linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, recently changed his agency to the same group that represents former Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers, currently managing Al Qadsiah.

McGregor, who collected his 26th major trophy last season, emphasized the motivation within the squad to continue achieving success. Speaking about O'Neill's permanent return and his backroom staff, McGregor said: 'All amazing guys who gave absolutely everything for the club and the cause last season. Especially second time round, it would have been easy to stay away, and they took that challenge. That tells you the type of people they are. They like a challenge, they face it head on. That's exactly the way I am as well as a player and a person.'

Manager O'Neill has previously stated that McGregor 'hasn't hinted to me he wants to leave,' but acknowledged that 'money is a big thing, particularly when you're past 30.' Despite this, the captain remains focused: 'That's the job of a Celtic player, that you don't get tired of winning. We have set ourselves an unbelievable standard over the last 14 or 15 years... all that does is bring bigger expectations, a bigger target on your back, so you then have to work even harder to defend it.'

Meanwhile, unrest among Celtic supporters continues regarding the club's hierarchy, with Camilo Duran being the only signing so far in the transfer window. Speculation also surrounds the futures of Daizen Maeda, Arne Engels, and Reo Hatate.