Celtic view securing a replacement for Kasper Schmeichel as a “priority” in the transfer market ahead of next season, sources have told Football Insider.
The Danish goalkeeper has seen his performances come under scrutiny from fans and pundits so far this term, and Celtic are already assessing their options ahead of his contract expiring in the summer.
Football Insider revealed at the start of December that Celtic are keen to find a long-term replacement for Schmeichel, and sources have now outlined that a new arrival in January is a serious possibility, if the right player can be found.
Schmeichel is currently earning a significant wage at Parkhead, but there are firm plans for a replacement to be sourced as soon as possible.
Viljami Sinisalo is also seen as being too inexperienced to take the number one spot.
Stefan Ortega viewed as potential Schmeichel replacement
Football Insider exclusively revealed in December that Celtic are keen to sign Stefan Ortega from Manchester City ahead of his contract expiring next summer.
The German finds himself firmly behind the duo of Gianluigi Donnarumma and James Trafford in the pecking order, while even Marcus Bettinelli has been used as the third goalkeeper ahead of him.
The 33-year-old has over 65 games of experience in the Bundesliga and has been a capable deputy in the Premier League since his move to the Etihad Stadium in 2022.
Ortega will be available as a free agent next summer, and Celtic have enjoyed a relatively close relationship with Manchester City when it comes to striking deals in recent years.
Pep Guardiola is keen to get the gloveman away from the squad as quickly as possible, and that could play perfectly into Celtic’s hands in January.
Kasper Schmeichel blamed for Celtic defeat to Rangers
Celtic were beaten 3-1 at home by Rangers in the Old Firm Derby last weekend, a result which ultimately represented the final straw in Wilfried Nancy’s managerial tenure.
The Bhoys went into the half-time interval with a one-goal lead, but quickly saw the game slip away from them in the second period, prompting fans to vent their frustrations once again.
Schmeichel has come under fire on several occasions already this term, and he was even dropped by Nancy for the victory away at Livingston on 27 December.
The 39-year-old found himself in the spotlight again in the Rangers defeat, as he conceded three goals from the four shots on target that he faced during proceedings.
His involvement in Rangers’ third goal drew particular criticism, as he allowed Mikey Moore’s strike to slip under his outstretched hand and into the back of the net.
It was the latest in a long line of errors from Schmeichel, and his inconsistent performances appear to have now forced Celtic into transfer action.