Stoke City and Preston lead hunt for Celtic’s Jonny Hayes on a free transfer

Stoke City and Preston North End have been alerted after Celtic failed to give a new contract to winger Jonny Hayes.

The 32-year old has been a key figure in the Scottish champions’ squad over the past three seasons and was widely expected to be handed a new deal by manager Neil Lennon.

However, the former Leicester City and Reading forward posted acceptance on social media on Friday evening that his Celtic career was over and he is now looking for a new club.

Jonny Hayes will leave Celtic on a free transfer once his contract expires in the summer 

Though the financial landscape will be harsh this summer, the fact the Republic of Ireland international is a free agent will make him an attractive option for Championship sides.

Stoke manager Michael O’Neill and his Preston North End counterpart Alex Neil are both confirmed admirers of Hayes and are having to work on targets within limited budgets.

Hayes’s former club Aberdeen plus Cardiff City have also posted interest in recent months as they waited for Celtic to make a decision on his future.

Hayes made 62 appearances for Celtic and last season scored once – in an Old Firm derby win at Rangers.

Hayes stands with the Scottish Premiership trophy won by Celtic this term