Celtic are now showing a strong interest in signing a Premier League goalkeeper, following the retirement of Kasper Schmeichel.
The former Denmark international was forced to call time on his career due to a serious shoulder injury. Explaining his decision, Schmeichel said: “I believe that now is the right time.
“I think everyone dreams of saying goodbye to the pitch, but you don’t always get what you want. I’ve gained a lot along the way, so football doesn’t owe me anything. I got a lot of opportunities, a lot of experience.
“What stands out the most are the friendships and connections I’ve made. The moments I’ve shared with them – good or bad.”
Viljami Sinisalo was beaten by sticks during the Scottish Hoops’ Premiership title run but now they are determined to sign a new goalkeeper.
Celtic are showing a strong interest in signing Radek Vitek
According to a report by Football Insider, Celtic are now very serious about signing Manchester United, Radek Vitek, who is eager to leave the Red Devils this summer.
Hull City were also interested in Vitek, following his impressive performances on loan at Bristol City in the Championship last season, but Martin O’Neill’s side are hoping to seal the deal.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Celtic need to sign a new goalkeeper, following the departure of Schmeichel, the 39-year-old player who played 26 games in the Scottish Premiership last season, ended up with 12 points. At 22 years old, Vitek could be O’Neill’s number one for years to come. |
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Finance |
Man United could demand £10m from the former Bristol City loanee. That fee would make him the second most expensive player in Celtic history, behind Arne Engels. |
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Understanding |
The Czech goalkeeper is yet to appear at a high level for the Red Devils. However, he was first choice for Bristol City in the Championship last season, keeping 12 clean sheets in 41 games. |
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Impact |
The Man United goalkeeper’s experience in the Championship means he could be positioned to be the Hoops’ number 1, replacing Sinisalo in the starting XI. |
Why Radek Vitek could make an immediate impact at Celtic
Although Vitek has never tested himself in the top division of English football, his performance in the second division last season was good, averaging 3.3 saves per 90, which was joint second in the division.
The shortstop also recorded a 71.3% save percentage throughout the season. For reference, only Motherwell’s Calum Ward and Hibernian’s Raphael Sallinger have averaged a better save percentage in the Scottish Premiership.
Journalist Dan Carter is a fan of the former Accrington Stanley man, describing him as “something special” after he made a “wonderful save” from “very close” against Ipswich Town last season.
As such, Vitek clearly has the potential to make an immediate impact at Celtic Park, but the £10m price tag may be a bit steep, considering Dermot Desmond is not known for splashing the cash, with fans protesting the disinvestment last season.
