Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is in the market to strengthen his squad this summer as the 2023/24 campaign edges towards a close.
Several transfer priorities will present themselves over the coming months; however, the goalkeeping situation at Parkhead will require assessment amid Joe Hart’s impending retirement from the game.
There is also uncertainty over the future of back-up pair Scott Bain and Benjamin Siegrist, who Rodgers confirmed could also depart to make way for reinforcements [Sky Sports].
In response, Celtic have already scoured the market for potential replacements to help fill the void left between the sticks.
According to various reports, RC Waalwijk’s Ettiene Vaessen and Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher have been tentatively linked with a move to Glasgow’s east end.
Inevitably, more names will be linked as the close season approaches; nevertheless, Hart’s impact at the club should not be understated.
Before we kick off against Rangers today, the former England international has made 144 appearances for Celtic, keeping 60 clean sheets and playing his part five trophies [Transfermarkt].
Celtic set up meetings with prominent goalkeeper target
According to Taka Gazete, Celtic are keen to sign Trabzonspor goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir and have reportedly sought talks with his management team, lawyer, and a Zoom call between the player himself and Rodgers.
The outlet claim that Michael Nicholson has personally sent an email to the Turkish outfit outlining the Hoops’ intentions; meanwhile, a fee in the region of £7.5 million is believed to be the offer Celtic could put forward to land their man.
Capped 27 times for Turkey, Cakir has kept ten clean sheets in 33 outings across all competitions this campaign, per Transfermarkt.
FBRef note the 28-year-old has shown an impressive base level of shot-stopping ability in the Super Lig, recording a save percentage of 69.9% from 118 shots faced on target.
Per Fotmob, Cakir has been an efficient present in Trabzonspor’s goalmouth circa 2023/24, acting as a sweeper on 17 occasions successfully, making 37 high claims and racking up 284 long balls.
Should he be the man to replace Hart at Parkhead, it is fair to say that a sense of excitement would greet his prospective arrival heading into next term.