Celtic set to step up search for new goalkeeper in January

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic are reportedly set to step up their search for a new goalkeeper in January.

Football Insider report that signing a new goalkeeper in January is a priority. However, if they are unable to find the right player, the club is willing to wait until next summer to secure a new shot-stopper.

Current Celtic number one Joe Hart’s deal expires at the end of the season, with no signs of a contract extension yet Hart’s future at Celtic looks uncertain.

Despite this uncertainty, Hart has only missed one game all season due to suspension, after he was red-carded against Livingston in September.

Celtic were previously linked with Andriy Lunin by the Daily Record with the Real Madrid goalkeeper reportedly one of several goalkeepers being observed and analysed by the Celtic scouting team.

There were indications of Celtic’s interest in a potential move during the summer. However, negotiations were reportedly hampered by an injury to Thibaut Courtois, leading to Lunin starting Madrid’s first two games of the season and making the Spanish giants unwilling to engage in negotiations with Celtic.

With Lunin’s Madrid contract expiring in the summer of 2024, Celtic will likely return for a move for the Ukraine international in January, but will likely face competition for his signature with Chelsea and Real Betis also said to be interested.

Despite winning five domestic trophies out of six during his time at Celtic, Hart has yet secure a new deal. The longer time goes on, the more likely it appears Celtic will sign a new goalkeeper.

At 36 years old, Hart is nearing the end of his career but has been an upgrade on Vasilis Barkas, who struggled to adapt to life in Scotland after moving from the Greek side AEK Athens.

Signed on a free transfer, Hart has proven to be a bargain acquisition at a time when doubts surrounded his future in football. He was informed by the then Tottenham Hotspur boss, Nuno Espirito Santo, that he was considered too old to play in goal for the London side.

Hart has displayed signs of slowing down this season, but he still remains ahead of Scott Bain and Benjamin Siegrist. While Celtic is likely to sign a new goalkeeper, they should also consider extending Hart’s contract, as he will undoubtedly be more than capable as a backup option to compete with whoever the Hoops bring in.