Often in the past, we have seen Celtic being linked with quality players but ultimately lose out to clubs from the top-five leagues due to the Hoops' inability to keep up financially with those teams. Unfortunately, that is the reality of modern-day football. And now, it looks like a long-time target, who would have been a terrific signing for the Scottish champions, is headed elsewhere.
The goalkeeping position is one that Celtic need to keep an eye on. Kasper Schmeichel's performances in the second half of the season were shaky, and he dealt with an injury as well. Viljami Sinisalo did a decent job as backup but is he the club's long-term number one?
For a few years now, Celtic had been linked with a move for Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool. Now, he finally looks set to move. But Glasgow won't be his destination.
As reported by Sky Sports, Brentford have agreed an initial £12.5 million deal with Liverpool to sign Kelleher. With add-ons, the fee could rise up to £18 million.
Brentford agree £12.5m deal to sign Celtic transfer target
Of course, the final fee is significantly higher than the record figure the Hoops shelled out last summer to bring in Arne Engels. But the initial amount does not feel out of reach.
In fact, that feels like a bargain for a keeper of his quality. Whenever given a chance, Kelleher has looked like one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. It is unfortunate that those chances have been few and far between because Liverpool have Alisson ahead of him in the pecking order.
Someone like Kelleher could have bee the long-term goalkeeper that Celtic have been looking for for so many years. But it won't be happening, which is sad, because the Hoops had been linked with him as well.