Reliable reporter Alan Nixon has provided an update on Celtic’s pursuit of Eddie Howe on social media.

The Hoops have been linked with the former Bournemouth boss for what seems like forever now, and despite Howe reportedly verbally agreeing on becoming Neil Lennon’s long-term successor at the beginning of April, a deal is yet to be announced.

Reports previously suggested the 43-year-old was having second thoughts, however, recent stories have now claimed he is finalising his backroom staff ahead of a Parkhead switch.

Nixon, who writes for The Sun, was asked if he had any more information on the situation on Friday evening.

He reiterated that some of Howe’s wanted coaching staff will be busy at Bournemouth, before ending with a telling five-word claim - ‘Celtic seem prepared for that’.

“Said last Sunday that his coaching staff will be busy at Bournemouth for a few weeks yet... it could be a wait... but Celtic seem prepared for that.”

Transfer Tavern take

Nixon’s comment here seems to be the clearest indicator yet that the Howe deal should eventually happen, with the Hoops 'prepared' to bide their time to get a deal over the line.

To us, that could be a risk. It seems as if Howe wants a few coaching members from the Cherries, however, should they earn promotion to the Premier League through the playoffs, it could be harder to get them out of their respective deals.

Should that be the case and a deal for Howe break down, that may leave the Hoops in a worrying position ahead of the 2021/22 season.

There have been plenty of rumours that Odsonne Edouard and Kris Ajer could depart Glasgow this summer, perhaps even Ryan Christie too, via The Daily Record. If those moves happen without a new manager in place, the club could find themselves scrambling around for a replacements who may not even fit the new boss' desires.

In other news: Manager of European giants talks to Celtic star about summer move, find out more here.