Crystal Palace have spoken to Celtic target Eddie Howe to potentially become their new manager.

That’s according to an exclusive report from Football Insider, who have been informed of the contact between the two parties from a Selhurst Park source. The 43-year-old is believed to be among Palace’s top targets to replace Roy Hodgson, with the 73-year-old’s deal at Selhurst Park concluding in the summer.

Celtic had verbally agreed a deal with Howe to become Neil Lennon’s long-term successor, but the Englishman has now had second thoughts over a Parkhead switch.

Transfer Tavern take

Howe admitted way back in November that his next position in management would have to be one which ‘really motivated’ him.

It seemed as if Glasgow could be a potential destination following face-to-face talks with Dermot Desmond, with Howe having experience of rebuilding a club during his time at Bournemouth.

One of his assurances before penning terms with the Hoops was reported to be bringing Cherries director Richard Hughes with him. Celtic were thought to be closing in on Manchester City's Fergal Harkin to fill the newly-created director of football role, with a deal reportedly 90% done last month.

Perhaps that was one of the reasons for Howe holding off signing with Celtic, and it now appears as if he is talking with Palace ahead of a potential Premier League return. The Hoops could yet come to regret not doing enough to secure the 43-year-old's services.

In other news: Celtic could be offered £57k p/w international for Odsonne Edouard, find out more here.