The Celtic goalkeeper paradigm has become one of the key sources of frustration for Celtic fans in recent months.
One man who could be a potential bargain for Celtic in this position is current FC Twente goalkeeper Joël Drommel.
Plying his trade in Holland’s Eredivisie, his contract is scheduled to expire at the end of the current campaign, though they hold the option of another year. [Transfermarkt].
Last month he stated his desire to make a transfer move in the summer, having previously been linked with Anderlecht and Ajax. [Football Oranje]
What attributes would Joel Drommel bring to Celtic?
At first glance, the main quality he retains is his shot-stopping ability.
Possessing fine reflexes, the 24-year-old would be an ideal candidate between the sticks at Parkhead due to his concentration levels. He has kept 6 clean sheets in 27 outings this season, which illustrates his capabilities [Transfermarkt]
He’s made 89 saves this season, the third-highest in Eredivisie. Six of those have come from inside the six-yard box, with a further 48 from inside the penalty area. [WhoScored]
Anticipation is a great quality to have, coupled with instinctive nous which allows for quick reactions to dangerous situations. Drommel has plenty of both, which would suit the Celts both domestically and in Europe against stiff opposition.
Joel Drommel could be an upgrade on current goalkeeping options
Being switched on can save crucial points for a club like Celtic over a season. The last footballing embodiment of that statement came in the form of former Celtic favourite Fraser Forster.
With Drommel, the Hoops would be getting a goalkeeper looking to reach that level. Earmarked as a potential acquisition for Ajax, any approach would need to happen swiftly to secure his signature.
The Dutchman is comfortable with the ball at his feet, in keeping with the Celtic style of play. Only one goalkeeper in the Dutch top-flight has made more passes than him this term and close to half were accurate short passes [WhoScored]. This could help to initiate swift attacks for the Celts, increasing their purposeful forward ball progression significantly.
Lastly, it is worth noting Drommel has been called up to the Netherlands international side previously. Despite not being fully capped, it will surely only be a matter of time before he receives such recognition. Could him moving to Celtic be the perfect pathway towards achieving such prestige?
In other news, the timing is right for Celtic to make a big director of football announcement.
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