Celtic have now made Marc Leonard one of their top targets this summer, as he prepares to end his loan spell at Hearts and head back to Birmingham City.

Leonard among Celtic's top targets this summer

The Bhoys are clearly keen to ruffle a few feathers even as the Scottish Premiership title remains in the balance. By the time that the season comes to an end, their mentality could be if they can't beat them, buy them - resulting in the arrival of some rival stars.

It would be quite the move. In one hit, Parkhead chiefs would be boosting their own squad, which is desperate for reinforcements, and impacting their closest title rivals. Just who arrives has been the big question.

According to Football Insider's Pete O'Rourke, Celtic have now made Leonard one of their top targets this summer, as he prepares to head back to Birmingham after his loan spell at Hearts.

It's a major blow for those at Tynecastle, who may have a plan to welcome the midfielder on a permanent basis, themselves, when the summer transfer window arrives. As things stand, however, Celtic are doing all the heavy lifting.

O'Rourke revealed the news, telling Football Insider: "He’s a player that’s impressed a great deal up in Scotland this season, he’s been instrumental for Hearts.

"He’s been right up there as one of their most important players in the second half of the season, and he’s a player Celtic will be fully aware of. Even before his move to Hearts, he’s a player who has been on their radar for a while.

"He’s under contract still at Birmingham for another two years so we don’t know what Birmingham’s plans are for Marc Leonard. I’m sure he’s a player that Celtic are looking at, but again, I think there’ll be a lot of competition for his signature if Birmingham are willing to let him move on."

"Instrumental" Leonard could replace McGregor

A crucial Hearts loanee could quickly become a game-changer on a permanent basis at Celtic, especially with Callum McGregor's current deal set to come to an end in 2028. In Leonard, the Bhoys would have an instant replacement.

The numbers suggest that Hearts may well have played an important part in developing Celtic's McGregor heir this season. Leonard has outperformed the Bhoys' captain in several key areas and has impressed the most out of possession.

At 24 years old, the midfielder is at the peak of his powers and has a major decision to make this summer. If Hearts come calling alongside Celtic, then he could decide to deal his current loan side an incredible betrayal.

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