Deila set for New York deal
Former Celtic manager Ronny Deila is set for a shock move to New York.
The Norwegian is at the top of MLS side New York City FC’s wanted list as they look for a new boss.
The search has been on since former head coach Dome Torrent left the club in November and former Rangers star Giovanni van Bronckhorst was their top target.
But New York missed out on the ex- Feyenoord boss when he opted to take charge of Chinese Super League club Guangzhou R&F.
Now they have turned their attentions to Deila, despite him having only recently signed a new deal to continue at Oslo club Valerenga, where he moved after quitting the Hoops in 2016.
But Deila’s new contract is on reduced wages after his side could only finish 10th in the Norwegian top flight and it is unlikely Valerenga would stand in his way if New York City were to firm up their interest in him.
Valerenga general manager Erik Espeseth said: “We do not contribute to speculation in terms of player logistics or coach questions.”
However, Deila already has strong links with the American club’s owners, City Football Group, whose major shareholder is the Abu Dhabi United Group which belongs to Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour.
Stromsgodset were also an affiliate club of Manchester City when Deila led them to the Norwegian title in 2013 before joining Celtic the following year.
If he completes the move to the Big Apple, Deila would see a familiar face at the club – he signed New York City winger Gary Mackay-Steven for Celtic from Dundee United five years ago.
Mackay-Steven played his part as Deila won two league titles and a League Cup during his time at Parkhead.