Martin O'Neill walking on pitch before a game

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Celtic chase Sam Johnstone deal after new development – journalist

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

Published on:

27 Aug 2026, 2:00 pm

Celtic are reportedly considering a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone before the transfer window closes.

Reports emerged on Thursday that the 33-year-old is an option that the Hoops are considering as they continue to eye reinforcements in goal.

This comes after Wolves announced two new goalkeeper signings at the club on Thursday, with John Ruddy and Joao Virginia making the move to the Championship club.

As a result, Johnstone faces an uncertain future, and there is little evidence that he has a long-term future at Wolves.

Celtic have been eyeing a new goalkeeper all summer after Kasper Schmeichel departed Parkhead at the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

Now, Martin O’Neill’s side could complete a swoop for Johnstone and add much-needed experience to their squad.

Celtic consider deal for Sam Johnstone

If the Daily Mail’s report is correct, and Celtic make a move for Johnstone, the club would be getting a highly experienced goalkeeper.

To date, the former England international has made 375 appearances across all of his clubs, having previously played for the likes of Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace.

However, since moving to Wolves in 2024, he has struggled to secure a place in the starting XI and has only made 27 appearances in all competitions across the last two campaigns.

Nevertheless, with the Old Gold now having four goalkeepers on their books at present, Celtic could secure a cheap deal and a potential upgrade on Viljami Sinisalo.

Celtic miss out on eye-watering windfall

Who else could Celtic sign this summer?

Celtic have been chasing the signature of Gvidas Gineitis this summer transfer window.

The Torino midfielder has caught the attention of the Hoops, who are admirers of the Lithuania international.

However, after Celtic’s elimination from the Champions League on Tuesday, reports have indicated that the club are unlikely to sign Gineitis this summer.

The Italian club want around £10million for the 22-year-old, which could price Celtic out of a move after their failed to secure the riches of the Champions League.

Previously, the Hoops have seen a £6.5m bid rejected, and their pursuit of the star could now be over.

However, it remains to be seen if Celtic reignite their interest before the transfer window closes on 3 September.

Viljami Kari Veikko Sinisalo