The Shaq Celtics deal, to close.

Shaq Celtics?Based from reports, some personality with knowledge about the deal told to Associated Press.

According to the source, the Shaq Celtics deal is yet to be finalized. It was also reported that Shaq would rather retire than play internationally.

If Shaq Celtics will came to reality, Boston will have a perfect replacement for Kendrick Perkins. Perkins who was injured last season and will be recovering from knee surgery which will take (at least) until December.

Celtics already have Jermaine O'neal signed a contract with 5.6 million and still looking for another veteran to strengthen more the team.The Big Three of Miami Heat is still to match by other teams and if Shaq Celtics deal will be closed, then chances are Celtics vs Heat will be exciting to watch.

Here's a report from WEEI in Boston

    According to a report on ESPN.com, which cited league sources, the Celtics have expressed interest in center Shaquille O’Neal. With the C’s already over the salary cap, they could offer no more than the $5.8 million per year mid-level exception. According to the report, O’Neal would be intrigued by the idea of playing for Celtics coach Doc Rivers and with forward Kevin Garnett.

    With Kendrick Perkins sidelined following surgery to repair his torn ACL, the Celtics are looking for help at center. O’Neal averaged 12.0 points and 6.7 rebounds a game while playing 23 minutes a night for the Cavaliers in 2009-10.

    The report said that O’Neal has also encountered mutual interest with the Hawks and Mavericks, and that if LeBron James returned to Cleveland, he would consider a return to the Cavs.