Celtic have identified Fraser Forster’s replacement

Celtic have identified a replacement for Fraser Forster in case the Englishman’s move to Parkhead from Southampton falls through.

The Hoops are on the look out for an outstanding goalkeeper, and they have their eyes on Fraser Forster to be that goalie. He has haf great success in the past at Celtic, but he is on loan from Southampton for the meantime.

Earlier it had been reported that Forster’s future would be decided within 48 hours but that has turned out not to be the case. In a situation like this, it is good target more than one option and as reported by the Express, the club are looking further afield than Southampton to find themselves a marquee player.

Where else could a standout goalkeeper be sourced from?

Manchester City, that’s where.

Claudio Bravo made his professional debut in 2002, which is a wealth of experience that cannot be replicated, no matter how talented the player. He remained a staple in the Spanish leagues for much of his career as he played for Colo-Colo, Real Sociedad, and FC Barcelona.

On the 25th of August 2016, Bravo signed with Manchester City for £17 million and opened up early with a win over rivals Manchester United. He conceded a goal in debut and the fans let him have it. After a string of mishaps he was benched in 2017 and Willy Caballero was put in charge of the goal instead.

Despite the lack of game time at Man City, Bravo keeps his wits about himself in a penalty shootout and commands the box with a sense of seasoned generalship. The only thing is, he can have mixed results when he is not in top shape, and that is what The Bhoys expect as they prepare the assault on a 10-in-a-row record. The 37-year old has not been given the opportunity to shine at Man City, he has only made 29 appearances since signing with the club in 2017. He’s out of contract now and might want to go to a club that gives him the time to perform like before.

Other names that have been thrown around are Joe Hart or Ben Hart to put on the gloves for The Hoops.

In an interview with Football Insider, former Aberdeen striker Noel Whelan gave his thoughts on signing such a seasoned veteran, and how his inclusion could benefit the club.

"“They are looking at experienced goalkeepers, Neil Lennon is looking for somebody that has got a wealth of experience.“They want somebody that knows the game and knows how to command the back four.“You have got to have a goalkeeper you can trust.“It gives confidence to the back four.“They need to know they have got somebody secure in between the sticks who is talking all the time – that comes with experience.“You do not look any further than Claudio Bravo. He has immense experience.”"

If Forster, the most favorable option, is not an option during this summer transfer window then we may see Bravo in a Celtic kit after all.