UEFA begin process to approve Celtic target Postecoglou for move

UEFA have confirmed that they are processing an application for Celtic managerial target Ange Postecoglou to work in Europe.

Celtic are in advanced talks with the Yokohama F Marinos boss about becoming the permanent successor to Neil Lennon, having seen talks with Eddie Howe collapse last week.

Posteglou, who previously managed Australia, Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar among others, could leave Japan to take over in Glasgow but does not currently hold the required coaching badges.

UEFA require managers to hold their UEFA Pro license to operate in any top flight league or in European competition and, though experienced, the 55-year-old would need to obtain a licence to work permanently in Scotland. However, the European governing body do allow for special dispensation while a license is obtained in some cases.

Postecoglou has applied for an exemption but there’s no fixed timescale on when he could be given the green light to take on a job at Celtic.

A UEFA spokesperson said: “A recognition of competence procedure for Mr Postecoglou has been initiated. The process is ongoing.

“In general terms, the duration of the whole process depends on the requesting party, meaning if they provide all required documents in due course.”

Postecoglou’s record, which includes two A-League titles with Brisbane Roar, J-League success in Yokohama and an Asian Cup triumph with Australia in 2015 have brought him to the top of the list for Celtic aftewr the deal for former Bournemouth boss Howe fell through.

Celtic return to training later in June and begin Champions League qualification in mid-July.