Celtic striker Giorgos Giakoumakis could have a 'gentleman’s agreement' in place over an improved deal, according to Tam McManus.

The Lowdown: Giakoumakis shining for Hoops

The 28-year-old has become a popular figure at Parkhead since arriving from VVV-Venlo last year, scoring 25 goals in 50 appearances in total.

This season, Giakoumakis has netted six times in the Scottish Premiership, despite only starting four matches, and he has been hailed as 'hugely important' by Ange Postecoglou.

While the Greek's current deal doesn't expire until the summer of 2026, there has been plenty of talk about whether or not he will sign a new deal, with The Daily Record claiming he's set for a 'shock' exit after talks stalled.

The Latest: New deal incoming?

Speaking to Football Insider, McManus claimed that an agreement may have been in place for a while, just not with the i's dotted and t's crossed:

"He has a while left on his current deal but there seems to be a gentleman’s agreement that if he came in and down well then Celtic would bump his money up.

"I don’t know if that is going to happen. He is obviously looking for a new contract on more money. Celtic are in a strong position though, they have him until 2026.

"You want your players to be happy. I think he has something like 25 goals in 50 games so he has a good record. I don’t know how this is going to play out but he has only been there a year.

"If they can get him tied down to a big new contract and everyone is happy, that has to be the aim for Celtic. They won’t want to lose him."

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The Verdict: Long-term Parkhead hero?

This is an encouraging update from a Celtic perspective, with Giakoumakis someone who should be viewed as a vital part of the club's future in the coming years.

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His aforementioned goalscoring record speaks for itself - a goal every other game is hugely impressive - and at 28, he should remain at a high level for some time yet.

Even if a new deal doesn't come Giakoumakis' way, Celtic certainly find themselves in a strong bargaining position if other clubs come calling, such is the length of his current contract.