news-engine

Celtic’s search for a new goalkeeper appears to have gathered pace, with reports claiming the Scottish champions have now made an offer for UD Las Palmas stopper Dinko Horkaš. According to Sport Witness, Celtic have submitted a bid for the 27-year-old as Martin O’Neill looks to replace Kasper Schmeichel following the veteran Dane’s retirement. The Croatian goalkeeper has been on Celtic’s radar for several months. In fact, CeltsAreHere revealed back in July that Horkaš was keen on a move to Parkhead, although at that stage the club had yet to make an official approach. That now appears to have changed. The latest report suggests Celtic are making progress in their pursuit after formalising their interest with an offer. It is another sign that the club’s goalkeeping search is moving into a more decisive phase after assessing several options throughout the summer. Schmeichel’s time at Celtic was a tale of two seasons. First season he proved invaluable while the second season saw him become less of an asset and more of a liability. His weight appeared to be an issue as well as the shoulder injury he was carrying that eventually curtailed his second season. Sinisalo has taken up the mantle since then but he has no serious compeititon with Ross Doohan seen as a third choice goalkeeper. Horkaš fits the profile of a goalkeeper entering his prime years. The Croatian has built his reputation through spells in his homeland and Spain, eventually earning a move to Las Palmas. While he has not been one of the more heavily publicised names linked with Celtic this summer, interest in him has steadily developed behind the scenes. With the Premiership season now under way and a Champions League play-off looming later this month, Celtic will be keen to have their new goalkeeper settled as quickly as possible. European qualification could define the early months of the campaign, making the position even more important. With the transfer window entering a crucial stage, this is one to keep a close eye on.