Celtic may find their goalkeeper solution with previously linked out-of-contract star

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers faces the task of replacing Joe Hart’s presence between the sticks at Parkhead.

The former England international won seven trophies in Glasgow and established himself as an iconic figure due to his clutch contributions and passion for the club.

Nevertheless, the hunt for his successor is well underway, with several names mentioned in connection with Celtic ahead of the new campaign.

Sparta Prague stopper Peter Vindahl Jensen has emerged as an option for the Scottish Premiership champions, and reports suggest he could cost in the region of £4 million to acquire.

Bayern Munich’s Daniel Peretz and free agent Kenan Piric are also said to be in the frame; nevertheless, it is still unclear who will fill the vacant position.

With summer speculation in full flow, may I throw forward a suggestion that could help offer a solution to the Celtic goalkeeper dilemma?

Australia international Mat Ryan is available on a free transfer

Despite the market being awash with big-money valuations, there can still be value in the form of players coming to the end of their deals across Europe.

This is where Australia goalkeeper Mat Ryan comes in, as he is set to be available at the end of the month upon the expiration of his contract at Eredivisie outfit AZ Alkmaar, per Transfermarkt.

In 2023/24, the 32-year-old made 39 appearances in all competitions, keeping 17 clean sheets in the process.

Per FBRef, Ryan was a solid presence on league duty, obtaining a save percentage rate of 77.1% from 109 shots on target faced. He conceded less than a goal a game, helping Alkmaar finish fourth and secure automatic qualification for the Europa League league phase.

Winning 81 caps for his nation, Ryan possesses the experience desired by Celtic fans, alongside having the competence to function with the ball at his feet.

According to Fotmob, the former Copenhagen stopper maintained a passing accuracy rate of 77.1% last term. He also successfully completed 216 long balls, fitting the brief of Rodgers’ style of play.

Ange Postecoglou expressed interest in Mat Ryan at Celtic

You might think Ryan is a familiar name, and he is to Celtic supporters, as Ange Postecoglou was reportedly keen to sign the Socceroos goalkeeper back in 2021.

Then, at Brighton & Hove Albion, there were murmurs that the Bhoys were plotting a swoop for his services; however, nothing materialised.

Regardless, the fact he has already been on the radar is something to bear in mind. I write this purely from my own opinion, but the club have been known admirers of him previously, which may count for something as they assess their options.

According to Capology, Ryan’s weekly pay packet at Alkmaar is roughly €13,846 per week (£11,699) without bonuses and other stipulations, so he wouldn’t exactly be out of Celtic’s wage parameters.