Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has accepted the likelihood that two of his key players — winger Daizen Maeda and midfielder Arne Engels — will depart this summer, as transfer activity across the Scottish Premiership continues to gather pace.

O'Neill resigned to summer exits

O'Neill is resigned to losing Maeda, 28, and Engels, 22, ahead of the new season. However, reports suggest O'Neill harbours a personal preference to retain Maeda and allow the Japan international to see out the final year of his contract — a path reminiscent of club legend Henrik Larsson two decades ago.

The Celtic boss also faces a decision regarding captain Callum McGregor. O'Neill plans to hold direct talks with the 33-year-old after McGregor changed agents amid reported interest from other clubs.

Iheanacho linked as Celtic eye reinforcements

On the incoming front, O'Neill confirmed his continued interest in re-signing Kelechi Iheanacho. The 29-year-old forward is currently training alongside Newcastle United and Denmark striker William Osula at the Seedorf Football Academy in Manchester.

Celtic are also among the clubs tracking goalkeeper Tjark Ernst, 23, as negotiations between Feyenoord and Hertha Berlin over his transfer progress. Wolfsburg are also said to be in the running. Separately, Brondby sporting director Julius Ohnesorge confirmed the club would consider selling 23-year-old midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic but stressed that no approach from Celtic has been received.

Striker Johnny Kenny, 23, has attracted attention from Millwall and Bolton Wanderers, who both want to sign the Celtic forward on a permanent basis after he contributed to Bolton's promotion to the Championship during a loan spell.

Rangers movement and Scottish Premiership updates

Across the city, Rangers manager Derek McInnes acknowledged that outgoings must precede any new arrivals at Ibrox. McInnes is eager to strengthen his squad but concedes the club needs to balance the books first.

One player connected with a move to Rangers is Tromso midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl, 20, who has openly expressed his desire to join the club despite reported interest from Besiktas. Rangers had a £5.3m bid for Hjerto-Dahl rejected, though the player himself says he remains relaxed about the situation.

Elsewhere, Kilmarnock left-back Dominic Thompson, 25, looks set to move to Belgium after Beveren agreed a six-figure fee for the defender. Thompson will travel to undergo a medical and agree personal terms. St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari has opted against signing 25-year-old left-back Liam McCarron following a trial period at the Perth club after his departure from Boston United. Hellas Verona sporting director Sean Sogliano admitted his club will entertain offers for Scotland striker Keiron Bowie, 23, provided the price is right.