Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers isn’t hanging around with the summer window around the corner and could now turn his attention to a surprise target, per reports.
Celtic’s summer window is beginning to take shape
The Bhoys are well on course for the Scottish Premiership title and may seal their fate this weekend if they emerge victorious against Kilmarnock followed by Aberdeen defeating Rangers 24 hours later.
Unfortunately, Celtic missed their chance to guarantee league glory after a surprise defeat to St Johnstone last Sunday. However, Brendan Rodgers will know that misfortune will just be a minor setback en route to domestic glory.
With all that said, what does it mean for the reigning champions’ prospects come the window? On the face of it, the Hoops appear to be proactive at an early stage.
Augsburg midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj is said to be on Celtic’s radar and could be available for £3 million. On the same token, long-term target David Strelec is attainable for £4.2 million as potential competition to Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah across the frontline.
The fee could stretch to £5.9 million with add-ons, though Celtic would have no problem in paying a premium amid their rude financial health. On the flip side, that could prove to be a downside when negotiating for particular targets.
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Celtic may lose “very good” £16k-p/w star amid surprise escape route offer
Celtic could offload a number of stars this summer ahead of next campaign.
Nevertheless, there is little time to waste with Champions League qualifiers kicking off in the early part of next season. Rodgers will know his side need to be ready if they have designs on securing a spot in the league phase.
Stocking up on talent, the Irishman has now turned his attention to a surprise target who could bolster the ranks ahead of 2025/26.
Celtic look to strengthen goalkeeping ranks with Martin Dubravka
According to Chronicle Live, Celtic have taken an interest in Newcastle United’s Martin Dubravka amid his uncertain future at St James’ Park due to rumours linking James Trafford with a move to the North East.
Coming as a surprise, the Bhoys could now pursue the Slovakia international despite already having Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo between the sticks. The latter has filled in recently due to his counterpart being ruled out with a shoulder injury.
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Martin Dubravka vs Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo – domestic league |
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Martin Dubravka – Premier League |
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Save percentage rate |
70.9% |
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Clean sheets |
5 in 10 appearances |
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Goals conceded |
12 |
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Kasper Schmeichel – Scottish Premiership |
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Save percentage rate |
77.3% |
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Clean sheets |
19 in 30 appearances |
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Goals conceded |
20 |
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Viljami Sinisalo – Scottish Premiership |
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Save percentage rate |
83.8% |
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Clean sheets |
1 in 2 appearances |
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Goals conceded |
1 |
Labelled “excellent” by Tom Heaton, the 36-year-old has racked up nearly 180 appearances for Newcastle United and earns £40,000 per week on the books at his current employers.
Observing the financial realities that come with PSR regulations in England, Dubravka may be a fairly straightforward sacrifice if Celtic want to deal for the veteran stopper.
