Jens Berthel Askou has emerged as part of a three-man shortlist being considered by Toulouse, according to reports in France, adding another twist to the search around the Motherwell boss after weeks of discussion over his future.
The French side are also said to be weighing Christophe Pélissier and Olivier Pantaloni, while sporting director Viktor Bezhani has confirmed the club are working from a shortlist that includes French and international names. Bezhani said Toulouse hope to announce their choice as soon as possible, and set out the kind of coach they want: someone very dynamic, very positive, aware of the expectations of the thousands of fans who are waiting for goals.
Bezhani also said the next manager must be able to work with young players and bring new ideas, adding that Toulouse need a coach who has overperformed with modest means and knows how to develop players. That profile fits the wider shape of the club's search, which is aimed at finding a manager who can handle pressure quickly while improving younger players at a club with high expectations.
Askou's name has been heavily discussed around Celtic over recent weeks, and he remains one of the figures most strongly linked with the role. Interest in him has been tied to similar thinking about younger players and recruitment trading models, with his work in Denmark and Czech football earning praise for tactical flexibility and player development.
That puts Toulouse and Celtic on parallel tracks for now. Both are looking for a coach who can do more than simply fill a vacancy: they want someone who can raise standards quickly, bring through talent and survive the demands that come with a major job. For Askou, the next few days could determine whether his latest rise leads toward France, Glasgow, or a fresh round of speculation.
