Celtic’s hunt to find themselves a new manager has just taken another twist after one of the Hoops’ targets spoke to the media this week.

Unfortunately, it’s yet more bad news for Dermot Desmond and the club’s hierarchy.

What’s the word?

Celtic have had a number of targets lined up from Frank Lampard and Roberto Martinez to Rafa Benitez.

Before Neil Lennon even left his post, the Spaniard was linked with the Parkhead hot seat. The Mirror claimed he was primed and ready to take over but the likelihood of that happening has now been quashed by the man himself.

Speaking to The Times, Benitez revealed where his next job may be. Unfortunately, it made it sound like Celtic wouldn’t be at the top of his list.

When asked about what he wanted, the former Liverpool boss commented: “A competitive team that allows you to challenge for trophies, or a project that allows you to improve and grow and do better.”

“The priority is England. Why? Because obviously I like the Premier League and my family is here," he added.

Desmond angry

This is becoming a particularly frustrating ordeal for Desmond and those at the top of the Celtic food chain.

He has been dealt regular setbacks over the last week with a number of targets now seemingly off the table.

Jesse Marsch revealed it would be an honour to take on the job before German reporter Christian Falk admitted a day later that he wouldn’t be going to Glasgow in the summer.

[snack-amp-story url="https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/latest-celtic-manager-and-transfer-news-boupendza-mcgeady-marsch-mccarthy" title="Latest Celtic manager and transfer news!"]

That was followed by the news that Chris Wilder is unlikely to take on a new role until the summer. That’s because his pay-off from Sheffield United will get smaller if he receives a fresh job in the next six months.

Therefore, to hear that Benitez solely has his sights set on a move to England will have Desmond tearing his hair out.

Slowly but surely, their desire to hire someone in the immediate future is wilting away. Consequently, Roy Keane has emerged as an option in recent days.

He’s a candidate that hasn’t managed for the best part of ten years, something that perhaps says it all about the lack of ambition this Celtic hierarchy has.

No wonder Desmond was questioned about selling his shares this week.

AND in other news, Celtic star could leave after worrying phone calls emerge, Desmond must be scared...