Celtic’s summer rebuild is already beginning to take shape—and one of the biggest decisions could involve the future of young striker Johnny Kenny.
With a new manager expected to take charge ahead of next season, the Hoops are preparing for significant changes, particularly in attack. And as the club looks to bring in fresh firepower, Kenny may find himself pushed towards the exit door.
Summer shake-up could force key decisions
Reports suggest Celtic are ready to approve Kenny’s departure during the upcoming transfer window, a move that would help create space—both financially and tactically—for new arrivals.
Strengthening the forward line is understood to be a top priority, with Hearts striker Claudio Braga emerging as a serious target. The Portuguese forward has been one of the standout performers in the Scottish Premiership this season, delivering 12 goals and five assists in 30 appearances and playing a key role in Hearts’ push at the top of the table.
However, any deal will not come cheap. With a reported £5 million price tag, Celtic are expected to balance their spending with outgoings—and Kenny is one of the players under consideration.
A season disrupted at the worst time
For Kenny, the timing is particularly unfortunate.
The 22-year-old has struggled to establish consistency this season, but circumstances have hardly been in his favour. A revolving door of managers at Parkhead has made it difficult for the young striker to build rhythm or secure a defined role within the squad.
There were early signs of promise. Kenny made an immediate impact during Martin O’Neill’s first interim spell, scoring three goals in his opening two matches under the Northern Irishman after Brendan Rodgers’ departure.
But just as momentum began to build, opportunities dried up.
He soon fell out of favour, briefly returned to the fold under Wilfried Nancy, and then once again slipped down the pecking order following O’Neill’s return. His involvement became increasingly limited—just 29 minutes across two appearances—before he was ultimately sent out on loan to Bolton Wanderers.
Signs of life away from Parkhead
Since making the move to England, Kenny has shown encouraging flashes of what he can offer.
The striker has registered one goal and three assists in his first six League One appearances for Bolton, quickly adapting and making a positive impression.
More importantly, he has continued his rise on the international stage.
Kenny recently earned his senior debut for the Republic of Ireland, featuring in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Hungary that secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 play-offs.
Speaking after the milestone moment, he said:
“Words can’t describe how I felt yesterday making my international debut. Proud and honoured to be able to represent this country and nation. Incredible performance from the lads, see you in March.”
A pivotal summer awaits
Despite his recent progress, Kenny’s long-term future at Celtic remains uncertain.
Much will depend on the incoming manager, who is expected to assess the entire squad before making final decisions. But with the club actively targeting attacking reinforcements—and Braga firmly on the radar—the path back into the first team looks increasingly complicated.
For Celtic, it’s about building a squad capable of delivering immediate results.
For Kenny, it may come down to a simple question: wait and fight for a place—or move on in search of the consistent minutes his development demands.