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Both are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is this week.

"I have a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that McKenna would be willing to talk to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they used to be, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales striker is minded to complete the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League performance, should they not end up their group second place.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose agreement concludes after the European Championship, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the minimum.

Key Points

• Ipswich's manager denies any conversations with the Scottish club
• The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
• Wales' manager focused on World Cup qualification
• Both coaches linked with Celtic position
• Bellamy not free until post World Cup qualifiers