Sources: Joe Hart in line to leave Celtic
Celtic will replace Joe Hart as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper in the summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking to the new edition of Football Insider’s Insider Track Podcast, transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Hoops are actively seeking a long-term replacement for Hart, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
It is believed that Brendan Rodgers is eager for a new shot-stopper, but is happy to keep Hart between the sticks for the remainder of the season.
However, well-placed sources revealed to Football Insider that the goalkeeper position is the club’s top priority for the summer window.
As revealed by Football Insider (22 January), the Hoops are eyeing a move for Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher in the summer, who could cost up to £20million.
Hart has been the Hoops’ undisputed number one since his arrival from Tottenham in the summer of 2021, racking up 133 appearances in all competitions.
Celtic had been linked with a move for Iceland international Hakon Valdimarsson, but he has since reportedly agreed terms to move to Premier League side Brentford this month.
Sources also told Football Insider that Rodgers’ side are keen to snap up Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin in the summer, but he is likely to be too expensive.
Football Insider also revealed (22 January) that the club are also ready to sanction a move for third-choice shot-stopper Benjamin Siegrist this month amid interest from across Europe.
Celtic sit top of the Scottish league and recently advanced to the fifth round of the Scottish Cup after their 5-0 win over Buckie Thistle on Sunday (21 January).
They are next in action against Ross County on Saturday afternoon (27 January).
In other news, Sources: Celtic ready to accept offer for 31-year-old this month.
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