Chelsea are the latest superpower to track Irish teen Michael Noonan as TSG Hoffenheim, third in the Bundesliga, failed to reach the valuation of €2m set by Shamrock Rovers with initial bids. Rovers had no issue with Noonan and his family being guests of Celtic for the recent New Year’s Day Old Firm derby against Rangers. Paul Tisdale was sacked, along with manager Wilfried Nancy, two days after that defeat but the club’s interest in the player has continued in the absence of the operations lead. Europe’s top-drawer clubs sent scouts to the tournament and it is understood Barcelona shortlisted Noonan on their wanted list. They last qualified for the Champions League in 2018.

Source: Irish Examiner January 18, 2026 20:26 UTC