Celtic plot raid to sign keeper ‘better than Joe Hart’ – sources
Celtic want to sign a goalkeeper with better distribution than Joe Hart this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Brendan Rodgers is “desperate” for a shot-stopper who is good with the ball at his feet and can launch attacks for the Hoops.
It is believed that Celtic have made recruiting a new goalkeeper their top transfer priority heading into the summer window and are already shortlisting targets.
Well-placed sources have told Football Insider (23 April) that they, along with PSV Eindhoven and Southampton, are eyeing a move for Austrian goalkeeper Patrick Pentz.
Celtic eye new profile of goalkeeper to replace Joe Hart
Pentz, 27, is currently on loan at Danish side Brondby from newly-crowned Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen and his contract is set to expire in 2025.
The Glasgow giants are in the market for a new number one after Hart, 37, announced his retirement at the end of the season, but it is believed that the club are seeking a different profile of goalkeeper to the former England international.
The club do not see the other shot-stoppers on their books, Scott Bain and Benjamin Siegrist, as strong enough to replace Hart and become first-choice next season.
Sources also told Football Insider last month (12 March) that Rodgers’ side are eager to sign a new winger and striker ahead of the new season.
Celtic sit three points clear at the top of the league and most recently progressed to the final of the Scottish Cup after their win against Aberdeen on Saturday (20 April).
They are next in action against Dundee on Sunday afternoon (28 April).
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