Jonny Hayes’ contract at Celtic will run out at the end of the season. But it appears that he will not have any problems finding a new club if he does end up leaving Parkhead. At least that is according to reports in the Daily Record which state that four English Championship clubs are interested in the services of the Irishman.
Preston North End, Middlesbrough, Stoke City and Cardiff City are the four clubs who are looking to sign the 32-year-old. Hayes joined Celtic back in 2017 but has seen his career get derailed after suffering a broken leg in his first season at the club. He has become a squad player since then, filling in at left-back instead of his natural position on the wings but has done a commendable job nonetheless.
As reported by the Daily Record, Celtic have still not opened talks with Hayes regarding a new contract:
The reliable Republic of Ireland international is out of contract at the end of the season and manager Neil Lennon is keen to see that deal extended. But the 32-year-old now has strong interest from England and can open pre-contract talks from January 1.
Championship sides Preston, Middlesbrough, Stoke and Cardiff are all keen on Hayes. Lennon had expected Celtic to open talks over a new deal more than 10 days ago but the champions have still to speak to Hayes or his agent.
The club are currently in a sticky situation when it comes to left-back. Neither Boli Bolingoli nor Greg Taylor have managed to replace the swashbuckling Kieran Tierney. Thus the club might look to sign another left-back in January with nine-in-a-row on the line and Jonny Hayes could be left as the odd man out in the midst of all this.
