JIMMY CALDERWOOD is set to be sensationally named the new Celtic boss.
I exclusively revealed on Friday that the former Aberdeen manager was in talks with Dermot Desmond and Peter Lawwell.
I can now reveal that these talks are nearing completion, and that Calderwood, 54, along with his assistant Jimmy Nicholl (pictured above), 52, will be named at a press conference at Celtic Park next week.
This move comes after number one choice Mark McGhee snubbed the Bhoys in favour of his boyhood idols Aberdeen.
Although the move may be deemed controversial by some onlookers in the game, with both men self confessed dyed-in-the-wool Rangers supporters, what cannot be denied is the pedigree of these great chums.
Calderwood and Nicholl have overseen impressive top six finishes for Dunfermline and Aberdeen, and have proven themselves capable of reaching the odd cup final or two.
Crucially, however, Calderwood and Nicholl are experts at working within a tight budget, and it is this prospect that excites the Celtic board the most.
It is believed Celtic, with qualification for this seasons Champions League group stages a top priority, have earmarked a transfer kitty in excess of £1.9 million for the former Aberdeen legends to work with.
A source at Celtic Park last night stated, "Our chairman John Reid advised we are looking at only the very best candidates for Celtic FC.
Whilst that is true, an element of realism must be accepted by our great support- the best support in the whole wide world, I might add- in that we also have to look at the cheapest candidates."
Unfortunately, despite near constant participation in the Champions League, having over 50,000 season ticket holders, and being only second to Manchester United in the UK in terms of merchandise sales, Celtic just cannot compete with the likes of Burnley, Wigan, or West Bromwich Albion.
The two Jimmy's therefore have proved themselves to be the best men for the job.
It is also understood that Calderwood and Nicholl have pinpointed Aberdeen marksman Tommy Wright as their number one priority signing target for the Glasgow giants, and are likely to swoop for the prolific hitman next week.
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