Feyenoord have reportedly completed a deal to sign Celtic goalkeeper target Tjark Ernst.
Celtic’s interest in Ernst was first reported in Germany two weeks ago, but they have never been alone in pursuing the Hertha BSC stopper.
Wolfsburg had initially led the race, but they were later rejected by the player. This coincided with Feyenoord ramping up their interest.
The race is now over for the 23-year-old, with his move to Rotterdam reportedly a done deal.
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Tjark Ernst to Feyenoord a ‘done deal’
According to Florian Pletternberg of Sky Germany, only the final details of the move remain with the player giving his green light to Feyenoord.
They have activated his €5 million release clause.
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Now managed by Giovanni Van Bronckhorst, Feyenoord are bringing Ernst in as a replacement for first-choice Timon Wellenreuther, who also hails from Germany.
Ironically, Wellenreuther is reportedly in talks to move to Wolfsburg, whose aforementioned interest in Ernst predated that of the Eredivisie side.
The Dutch coefficient means that the Rotterdam club are guaranteed a place in the Champions League proper after finishing second in the league last season, a significant advantage over Celtic in the race.
Martin O’Neill appears to be hunting a number-one goalkeeper this summer, with Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement creating a vacancy.
Ernst made two appearances for the German U21 national team last season. Aged 23, he has had two campaigns as first choice in the German capital.
Stefan Ortega, also linked with Celtic, has reportedly rejected Hertha for now, theoretically making him an option in himself for the Hoops.
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Martin O’Neill has confirmed that Celtic are targeting a goalkeeper
Speaking to the media this week, O’Neill said: “We’re definitely looking for another goalkeeper.
“Whether it be a youngish fellow, same age as Sinisalo, or somebody a bit older, we’re definitely looking at it.
“Because we’ve only got Sinisalo here at this minute and we’ve got Ross [Doohan].”
Sinisalo deputised last season in the absence of Schmeichel, and it remains to be seen if he will continue to receive minutes this season
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