Celtic have shown strong interest in signing a Premier League goalkeeper following the retirement of Kasper Schmeichel.
The former Denmark international has had to put his career on hold due to a serious shoulder injury. Schmeichel said of his decision: “We believe now is the right time.
“I think everyone dreams of saying goodbye on the field, but you don’t always get what you want. Football doesn’t owe me anything because I’ve been through so many other things. I’ve had so many opportunities, so many experiences.
“What impresses me the most are the friendships and connections I’ve made. The moments I’ve shared with them, for better or worse.”
Villami Sinisalo was given the nod between the sticks during the Hoops’ run to the Scottish Premiership title, but they have embarked on the signing of a new goalkeeper.
Celtic show strong interest in signing Radek Vitek
According to a report from Football Insider, Celtic are currently very keen to sign Manchester United’s Radek Vitek, who is keen to leave the Red Devils this summer.
Hull City are also chasing Vitek following his impressive performances on loan at Bristol City in last season’s Championship, but Martin O’Neill’s side are hoping to hijack the deal.
Football Fancast Verdict | |
|---|---|
reliability | Celtic will need to sign a new goalkeeper following Schmeichel’s departure, and the 39-year-old made 26 appearances in the Scottish Premiership last season, keeping 12 clean sheets. Vitek, 22, could be O’Neal’s new No. 1 for years to come. |
finances | Man United could demand £10m for the former Bristol City loanee. This transfer fee makes him the second most expensive contract in Celtic history after Arne Engels. |
insight | The Czech goalkeeper is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Red Devils. However, he was Bristol City’s first choice in the Championship last season, making 41 appearances and keeping 12 clean sheets. |
impact | The Manchester United goalkeeper’s experience in the Championship could put him in a position to replace Sinisalo as the Hoops’ number one straight away. |
Why Radek Vitek could make an instant impact at Celtic
Vitek has never tested himself in English football’s top flight, but his performances in the second tier last season were excellent, averaging 3.3 saves per 90, the second-highest in the division.
The shot stopper also posted a 71.3% save percentage over the season. For reference, only Motherwell’s Callum Ward and Hibernian’s Rafael Sullinger have higher average save percentages in the Scottish Premiership.
Journalist Dan Carter is also a former Accrington Stanley fan, describing him as “special” after making an “incredible save” from “very close range” against Ipswich Town last season.
So while it’s clear Vitek has the ability to make an immediate impact at Celtic Park, a £10m price tag may be prohibitive considering fans complained about a lack of investment last season and Dermot Desmond is not exactly known for being a big spender.
