Celtic are now showing strong interest in signing a Premier League goalkeeper, following Kasper Schmeichel‘s retirement.
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 on the field, but you don’t always get what you want. I’ve had so much else along the way, so football doesn’t owe me anything. I’ve had so many opportunities, so many experiences.
“What stands out most are the friendships and connections I’ve made. The moments I’ve shared with them – for better or worse.”
Viljami Sinisalo was given the nod between the sticks during the Hoops’ Scottish Premiership title run-in, but they have now set out to sign a new goalkeeper.
Celtic showing strong interest in signing Radek Vitek
According to a report from Football Insider, Celtic are now very keen on signing Manchester United Radek Vitek, who is eager to leave the Red Devils this summer.
Hull City have also been pursuing Vitek, following his impressive performances on loan at Bristol City in the Championship last season, but Martin O’Neill‘s side are hoping to hijack the deal.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Celtic need to sign a new goalkeeper, following Schmeichel’s departure, with the 39-year-old making 26 Scottish Premiership appearances last season, and keeping 12 clean sheets. At 22-years-old, Vitek could be O’Neill’s new number one for many years to come. |
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Finances |
Man United could demand £10m for the former Bristol City loanee. That fee would make him the second-most expensive signing in Celtic history, behind Arne Engels. |
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Insight |
The Czech goalkeeper is yet to make a senior appearance for the Red Devils. However, he was Bristol City’s first choice in the Championship last season, keeping 12 clean sheets in 41 appearances. |
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Impact |
The Man United goalkeeper’s experience in the Championship means he could be well-placed to become the Hoops’ number one straight away, displacing Sinisalo in the starting XI. |
Why Radek Vitek could make an instant impact at Celtic
Although Vitek has never tested himself in the top flight of English football, his performances in the second tier last season were impressive, averaging 3.3 saves per 90, which was the joint-second highest number in the division.
The shot-stopper also recorded a save percentage of 71.3% across the season. For reference, only Motherwell’s Calum Ward and Hibernian’s Raphael Sallinger averaged a better save percentage in the Scottish Premiership.
Journalist Dan Carter is a fan of the former Accrington Stanley man too, describing him as “something special” after he made an “incredible save” from “very, very close range” against Ipswich Town last season.
As such, Vitek clearly has the ability to make an instant impact at Celtic Park, but a £10m price tag could be prohibitive, considering Dermot Desmond isn’t exactly known for splashing the cash, with fans protesting about the lack of investment last season.
