Celtic have reached an agreement with Eddie Howe over becoming the club’s new permanent manager, according to credible journalist Stuart Hodge.

The Lowdown: Howe finalising his backroom staff

Links with the former Bournemouth boss replacing Neil Lennon emerged at the beginning of April, but they appeared to die down after the 43-year-old reportedly had second thoughts about taking the Parkhead gig.

He spoke to Crystal Palace about potentially succeeding Roy Hodgson at Selhurst Park, but it seems as if Sean Dyche is the Eagles’ number one choice to replace the former England manager.

It now appears as if a move to Glasgow is back on for the ex-Cherries boss, though, with Howe reportedly finalising his backroom staff at the end of April.

The Latest: Announcement in ‘very near future’

According to Hodge, who shared the news on Twitter on Saturday, an announcement on Howe is expected in the ‘very near future’.

The journalist added that the 43-year-old will become Celtic’s 21st permanent manager, stating:

“Hearing from various sources now that an Eddie #Howe agreement has been struck and that #CelticFC will announce him as manager in the very near future. The Englishman will become the 21st manager in the history of @CelticFC.”

The Verdict: Howe must be motivated by Hoops job

To us, this is a huge boost for the club, as it looks as if they have finally got the man Dermot Desmond met in London for talks six weeks ago.

During that time, Roy Keane and interim boss John Kennedy have been linked with the full-time managerial position at Celtic, but neither of them has the experience Howe boasts. He has more than 500 games of experience in the dugout, with Keane and Kennedy having fewer than 200 combined.

Howe admitted back in November that his next role in management would have to be one which ‘really motivated’ him, and it seems as if he is fully on board with the Hoops' rebuild after Hodge’s enlightening update.

In other news: Source shares big Celtic transfer development; 'magnificent' star seems to have chosen new club, find out more here