Celtic have opened talks with Fraser Forster replacement

Celtic are reportedly in negotiation talks with a potential replacement for goalkeepers Fraser Forster and Craig Gordon.

Celtic are heading into their 10-in-a-row campaign without any solid plans at the goalkeeper position. One of the most important positions on the pitch, the Hoops will need to ensure they have a solid player in between the sticks come next season.

Obviously, the keeper Celtic fans want the most for the legendary campaign is fan favourite Fraser Forster. After returning to Parkhead last season on loan from English Premier League side Southampton, he restored his value and quickly gave Hoops fans flashbacks to his previous days with the club.

However, Southampton are currently playing hardball when it comes to the transfers or additional loans of both Forster and Mohamed Elyounoussi. The English club is in some financial straits and will be looking to move players and cut wage bills this transfer season. Even with that reality they are still choosing to drag their feet on negotiations for both players previously mentioned. As such, Celtic is proceeding ahead with their backup option in Joe Hart.

Hart is out of a contract at Burnley and the keeper will be looking to make a move in which he will continue to see ample playing time. At 33-years old, he won’t necessarily be the long-term answer at the position for the club, but neither would Forster. Hart represents a veteran presence considering his time in the EPL with Manchester City during their championship runs as well as time with Burnley.

According to the Daily Mail, the Hoops are in “intense negotiations” with Hart regarding a move to Parkhead. One has to believe that Celtic is serious in these negotiations and are not just some attempt to force the hand of Southampton. Neil Lennon and company cannot afford to be left out in the cold and miss opportunities to sign a quality goalkeeper ahead of next season. The exit of Gordon only exacerbated the situation.

If Forster is unable to return on loan it will be quite disappointing to Hoops fans. However, Hart is one player that can more than hold his own and represents an elite option for the Scottish Champions.