Celtic expected to fight off Arsenal to sign Ryan as Brighton green light exit – pundit
Noel Whelan insists Celtic will have plenty of competition as they look to lure Mat Ryan from Brighton.
The former Aberdeen hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claims the Hoops must get this kind of signing right this summer.
As revealed by Football Insider on Tuesday (June 15th), Celtic have registered their interest in Ryan and are putting together a contract package.
The 29-year-old has already held talks about joining Arsenal permanently after spending last season on loan at The Emirates.
It is understood a fee of between £3 and £5million has been discussed.
Ryan is heading into the final year of his contract and it is understood the Seagulls have given him the green light to leave.
Vasilas Barkas and Scott Bain have been sharing the goalkeeping duties at Celtic but Whelan claims the club need a permanent number one next season.
“They did too much chopping and changing last season,” Whelan told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“This is a big transfer window for Celtic and they have to get it right. There’s still speculation about the manager even though he’s arrived.
“It’s important they get this bit of it spot on. They can’t afford another poor transfer window.
“He’s been at Arsenal and I’m sure there are other Premier League clubs interested in him as well.
“He’s a solid keeper and Celtic can show him that Parkhead is the place for him and win the race.
“He needs to know they will be challenging next season and that the number one shirt is his.”
Ryan spent last season on loan at Arsenal and made three appearances under Mikel Arteta.
He has previously played for Club Brugge and Valencia is a well-travelled career.
In other news, Alan Hutton has fumed over the management of a Celtic and Rangers star on international duty.