Major Celtic next manager update as Jose Mourinho development clears path for bookies favourite

The Hoops are expected to appoint a new head coach when Martin O'Neill's deal expires this summer.

The 73-year-old was initially brought in on an interim basis when Brendan Rodgers resigned in October, winning seven of eight matches in charge before making way for Wilfried Nancy in December.

O'Neill was swiftly brought back on a deal until the end of the season in January after Nancy was sacked but is not expected to remain at the helm next season.

"I would not,” O’Neill told talkSPORT last month when asked if he could continue as boss next season. “I can't see that for a start and I genuinely can't. I don't know whether I would have the energy and all that type of stuff."

Martinez, the bookies favourite to take over from O'Neill in the summer, is currently preparing Portugal for the World Cup in USA, Canada and Mexico. However, ESPN has claimed that the Spaniard will be leaving his role after the tournament with Benfica boss Jose Mourinho lined up to replace him.

Mourinho has held a long-standing ambition to manage his country and could now be given the chance to do so with four years to prepare for a World Cup on home soil, with Portugal co-hosting with Spain and Morocco in 2030.

Martinez has a history with Scottish football having played for Motherwell during the 2001-02 season. He also has a close working relationship with Celtic coach Shaun Maloney, who was his assistant at both Wigan and Belgium.

His partner Beth is also Scottish with the pair having met during his Fir Park stint. The 52-year-old has also managed Swansea City and Everton.