According to a recent article from The Daily Record, Celtic is closely monitoring Marc Leonard. The midfielder has been a key focus following his loan move to the league-leading Hearts from Birmingham City late in the January transfer window.
The 24-year-old, who is a former youth international for Scotland, began his football journey with Rangers and Hearts before moving south to Brighton & Hove Albion. He progressed through their reserve ranks before being loaned to Northampton Town for more first-team experience, making a couple of appearances in the League Cup in 2021.
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After showcasing his talent in the lower tiers of English football, the Seagulls allowed him to transfer to Birmingham City for €590k in the summer of 2024. During his time with the Blues, he played a significant role in securing promotion to the Championship from League One, although his playing time has been somewhat limited at the start of this season.
Immediate Impact at Hearts’ Midfield
Hearts re-signed Leonard on a short-term loan earlier this year, and manager Derek McInnes quickly integrated him into the starting lineup. Leonard seized this opportunity by providing an assist for Stuart Findlay from a corner kick. Except for a suspension during a match against Motherwell, Leonard has been a consistent presence in the midfield, contributing significantly to Hearts’ title aspirations for the first time in 66 years.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – FEBRUARY 15: Marc Leonard of Hearts scores the opening goal during the William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Heart of Midlothian at Ibrox Stadium on February 15, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)
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Celtic is expected to revamp its squad in the upcoming summer transfer window. Interim manager Martin O’Neill, along with his assistant Shaun Maloney, is overseeing the recruitment process until the club appoints a permanent successor for the veteran Northern Irishman. Having stumbled in the past two windows, it’s critical for them to initiate transfers early to allow newcomers to adapt under the new manager.
Celtic’s Interest in Leonard
On paper, Celtic appears to have a solid midfield lineup. Captain Callum McGregor continues to perform effectively as a deep-lying playmaker, while players like Arne Engels, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Reo Hatate, Paulo Bernardo, and Luke McCowan provide additional box-to-box options.
However, they could find themselves in a crisis ahead of next season, especially with Bernardo and Hatate likely to seek more playing time elsewhere. The decision on whether to extend Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract is still pending, and the increasing interest in Engels might compel them to consider selling the Belgian midfielder.
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Renowned for his composure, strong tackling, and defensive skills, as well as his ability to initiate plays from the back, Leonard’s progressive style highlights his versatility. With a fierce competition developing for silverware between Celtic and Hearts, it remains to be seen whether the Birmingham player will eventually join Celtic this summer.