Celtic appear to be edging closer to a significant signing, with reports suggesting they are targeting a Premier League goalkeeper to replace Kasper Schmeichel as their long-term option between the posts.
This potential deal highlights Celtic’s continued tendency to explore the Premier League market during the January transfer window.
The Scottish champions have often looked south of the border for reinforcements as they aim to maintain their dominance in the Scottish Premiership.
One familiar name linked with a return to Celtic Park is Kieran Tierney. Nearly six years after leaving for Arsenal, the left-back could be poised for a homecoming.
Such a move would align with the expected departure of Greg Taylor, whose contract expires this summer, and provide Tierney with an opportunity to revive a career that has somewhat stagnated.
However, Tierney is not the only Premier League player on Celtic’s radar. Turkish outlet The Star claims that Celtic are close to finalizing a deal for Altay Bayindir, currently playing second fiddle to Andre Onana at Manchester United.
At 26, Bayindir is said to be eager for regular first-team football and could view Celtic as the perfect stage to establish himself as a number one.
His potential arrival would signal a changing of the guard at Celtic Park, with 38-year-old Schmeichel nearing the end of his contract and set to depart in the summer unless a new deal is agreed.
Still, any immediate move for Bayindir could face hurdles. The goalkeeper’s agent, speaking to reporters as quoted by United in Focus, downplayed transfer speculation:
“There were offers from many European clubs and the Premier League for Altay at the beginning of the season. There are currently clubs that are interested, but Altay wants to stay and play for Manchester United. The club definitely does not want to let Altay go.”
Bayindir Could Solve Celtic’s Goalkeeper Dilemma
Schmeichel has been commendable since replacing Joe Hart this season, but his age has always made him a stopgap solution.
Bayindir, by contrast, represents a longer-term prospect—a talented shot-stopper with years ahead of him and a readiness to embrace a starting role.
Despite limited opportunities at Old Trafford, Bayindir has garnered praise for his abilities. Mehmet Özdilek, a former assistant manager for Turkey, lauded the goalkeeper’s skill, particularly his proficiency with the ball at his feet.
If Celtic can secure Bayindir’s signature, it could mark the beginning of a new era between the sticks—one that combines stability and ambition as they continue their quest for silverware.
