One transfer story that some may dismiss is Celtic’s reported interest in Roma goalkeeper Robin Olsen.
Indeed, Italian newspaper Il Messaggero reported earlier this month that Celtic had made a loan offer to the Serie A giants that involved them paying half of his wages. Unsurprisingly, the paper stated that Roma weren’t too keen.
But Celtic could do a lot worse than revisit this deal and try to come to some sort of arrangement, even if it costs a bit more than the club were initially willing to pay.
With Roma appearing to be open to some form of loan option, Celtic could do worse than pay more of his wages than they reportedly did.
Yes, Celtic already have a number one choice in Vasilis Barkas. However, who do we have behind him in the pecking order?
Scott Bain is a capable ‘keeper domestically, particularly against teams in the bottom six. But when Celtic visit the likes of Ibrox, Pittodrie, or Easter Road, we could do with a higher-quality goalkeeper in reserve if Barkas is ever out.
Olsen would prove to be just that. And if it’s a loan deal, there would be no obligation to make it permanent. It’s a potential deal that could be done for short-term gain as we look to secure a historic 10th consecutive Premiership title.
He would arrive in Scotland with a wealth of experience too. Olsen has been capped 36 times by Sweden, and also has just under 50 European outings to his name in both the Champions League and Europa League (Transfermarkt). He was also a regular for Cagliari during the first half of last season too, making 20 appearances during his loan stint.
A chance to create a positive rivalry
It would also potentially be the signing that could push Barkas to even greater heights. Say what you want about our reserve options, but Barkas will know he isn’t going to be challenged by them.
Bringing in Olsen changes that. All of a sudden, our Greek stopper would have a real fight on his hands to keep his jersey. Neil Lennon would effectively have two experienced internationals battling it out to try and be the club’s number one.
Of course, Olsen would unlikely fancy coming to Glasgow just to sit on the bench, but that’s not what you sell to the player. He would be presented with an opportunity to battle Barkas as opposed to simply being his understudy.
At 30, Olsen is coming into his prime, and he has the pedigree to make Celtic fans sleep a little easier if Barkas was to either pick up a knock or be suspended.
In a campaign as vital as this, it’s vital we have strength in depth in all positions. Can we really say we’re strong in the goalkeeping department outside of Barkas?
Yes, there are more pressing areas of the squad that need rectified. Celtic still need a new centre-back, left-back, and right-winger at the very least. But if the option is there to bring Olsen in, it seems unnecessary to pass it up.
In other news, Celtic strike duo Patryk Klimala and Albian Ajeti have received praise from an unlikely source.
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