Celtics manager Brendan Rodgers has acknowledged that the club is still seeking a new first-choice goalkeeper following Joe Hart’s retirement.
After a 1-1 friendly draw with Ayr United, Rodgers addressed the media, confirming that the search for Hart’s replacement remains ongoing. Scott Bain is currently covering the position, but Rodgers emphasized the urgency of securing a new keeper before the season begins.
Rodgers highlighted the club’s prolonged effort to find a suitable replacement, noting that the priority has been known since Hart announced his retirement in February. While Sparta Prague’s Peter Vindahl Jensen tops the list, no agreement has been reached yet.
The delay has underscored the need for swift action, with Rodgers pointing out the recruitment department’s awareness of this critical need for five months.
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Several names have been linked to Celtic, including Former Leicester City’s Kasper Schmeichel, whom Rodgers previously managed. However, Rodgers refrained from confirming specific targets, stressing the importance of quality over quantity.
He mentioned that although they could have signed multiple players by now, the focus is on acquiring the right talents, which sometimes requires patience.
Rodgers remains optimistic that Celtic will secure the necessary additions to strengthen the squad. He expressed confidence that the club will conclude deals by the end of the transfer window, aiming for a robust lineup ready for an exciting season. While the process may seem slow, Rodgers assured fans that the collaboration with other clubs to get the desired players is ongoing, and the results will be worth the wait.
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Rodgers also addressed the interest in South Korean striker Oh from Genk, indicating that the club will assess the situation in the coming days.
As Celtic prepares for their USA tour, Rodgers hopes to have new signings on board to face DC United, Manchester City, and Chelsea, ensuring a competitive squad for the upcoming matches.
