Celtic Takeover Rumour: Could Brendan Rodgers and Willie Haughey Finally Change This Board?

Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie has claimed that Lord Willie Haughey and former manager Brendan Rodgers have attempted to buy out majority shareholder Dermot Desmond. The claim was made during an episode of the Frankly Speaking podcast. Currently, there has been no public confirmation of a bid or share sale from Rodgers, Haughey, Desmond, or Celtic.

Haughey is a wealthy businessman and former Celtic non-executive director who has a close relationship with Rodgers. Rodgers left Celtic in October 2025 after his relationship with the club's leadership collapsed, leading Desmond to accuse him of creating a toxic atmosphere. Buying Desmond's holding would grant significant influence but would not automatically result in a full takeover.