Celtic are preparing for what could become one of their most important transfer windows in recent years, and one position expected to receive major attention is goalkeeper.
Following uncertainty surrounding the long-term situation between the posts, the Hoops are reportedly exploring the market for a new shot-stopper ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. While the club already has promising options within the squad, there remains a growing belief that additional quality, experience, and competition are needed if Celtic are to continue dominating domestically while also improving in Europe.
The goalkeeping department has become a huge talking point among supporters over the past few months. Injuries, inconsistency, and questions over long-term planning have all contributed to the debate. Although Viljami Sinisalo showed flashes of brilliance whenever called upon, many fans still believe Celtic require another dependable goalkeeper capable of handling the pressure that comes with playing at Parkhead.
Replacing a veteran figure is never easy, particularly at a club where expectations are enormous every single week. Celtic supporters demand consistency, confidence under pressure, and reliability in major moments. One mistake can instantly shift momentum in Scottish football, especially during title races and Old Firm clashes.
Because of that, Celtic’s recruitment team will likely approach this summer carefully. The club may not be willing to spend massive money on a goalkeeper, but they still need someone capable of immediately improving the squad.
Fortunately, several realistic and affordable names have already emerged as possible targets.
Mathew Ryan – The Experienced Free-Agent Option
One name that continues to surface in transfer discussions is experienced Australian international Mathew Ryan.
Ryan has been linked with Celtic multiple times over the years, and many supporters believe this summer could finally be the right moment for a move to happen. The veteran goalkeeper has built an impressive career across Europe, representing clubs in Spain, England, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands while also becoming one of Australia’s most capped players of all time.
At 34 years old, Ryan would not represent a long-term investment, but he could offer something Celtic may desperately need right now — stability and experience.
Goalkeepers often continue performing at a high level well into their late thirties, particularly those who rely on positioning, leadership, and reading of the game rather than pure athleticism. Ryan fits that description perfectly.
One of the biggest attractions surrounding a potential move is the financial aspect. Reports suggest his current deal is approaching its end, meaning Celtic may be able to sign him either on a free transfer or for a very small fee. In today’s market, where clubs are demanding huge money for even average players, that represents excellent value.
Ryan’s experience at major tournaments also makes him a very attractive option. He has played in World Cups, Asian Cup tournaments, high-pressure league matches, and difficult European fixtures throughout his career. That level of experience cannot be underestimated.
Celtic’s younger defenders could benefit massively from having a vocal and composed goalkeeper behind them. Communication from the back is essential, especially in big European nights where concentration levels must remain high for the full ninety minutes.
Another reason Ryan appeals to many fans is his mentality. Throughout his career, he has shown professionalism, resilience, and leadership qualities. Celtic need players capable of handling pressure, and Ryan has already proven he can thrive in demanding football environments.
Of course, there are concerns.
Some supporters may question whether signing another goalkeeper in his mid-thirties truly represents forward planning. Others may worry about whether his best years are already behind him. However, given Celtic’s likely budget limitations and need for immediate reliability, Ryan could still be a very smart short-term solution.
If the Hoops decide to prioritise experience and leadership this summer, Mathew Ryan may quickly move toward the top of their shortlist.
Jari De Busser – The Most Realistic Long-Term Target
Out of all the names currently linked with Celtic, Belgian goalkeeper Jari De Busser arguably feels like the most realistic option.
The 26-year-old has enjoyed an impressive rise over the last few seasons and is beginning to attract attention from clubs across Europe. His performances for Go Ahead Eagles in the Dutch Eredivisie have been particularly impressive, with many observers praising his reflexes, command of the area, and penalty-saving ability.
De Busser truly gained wider recognition during the KNVB Cup campaign, where he produced several standout performances under pressure. His calmness during penalty situations especially caught the attention of supporters and scouts alike.
At 26 years old, he perfectly fits the profile Celtic often target in the transfer market.
The club traditionally prefers signing players entering their prime years rather than ageing stars approaching retirement. De Busser offers the possibility of immediate contribution while still having room for development and resale value in the future.
Financially, this move also makes sense.
Reports suggest the goalkeeper may have only one year remaining on his contract, which could significantly reduce his transfer value. That would give Celtic an opportunity to negotiate a deal without spending a fortune.
For a club constantly balancing ambition with financial sustainability, finding players in these situations is extremely important.
De Busser’s style of play may also suit Scottish football.
He is known for strong shot-stopping, quick reactions, and confidence in one-on-one situations. Celtic goalkeepers are often required to make crucial saves despite having relatively little to do for long periods during domestic matches. Concentration becomes essential.
The Belgian has shown he can remain alert and produce big moments when needed.
His distribution has also improved significantly in recent years. Modern football increasingly demands goalkeepers comfortable playing out from the back, and Celtic have consistently tried to build attacks through possession-based football.
If the club wants a goalkeeper capable of fitting modern tactical systems while also offering long-term value, De Busser appears to check many boxes.
Supporters may not immediately recognise his name compared to more established international stars, but that does not necessarily matter. Celtic’s recruitment success over the years has often come from identifying undervalued players before their reputations explode elsewhere.
The biggest challenge could be competition.
If De Busser continues performing strongly, more clubs across Europe will likely join the race for his signature. Celtic may therefore need to move quickly if genuine interest exists behind the scenes.
Still, among all the realistic options currently available, Jari De Busser may represent the smartest overall balance between affordability, age profile, and long-term potential.
Dominik Livakovic – The Dream Signing for Celtic Fans
If Mathew Ryan represents the experienced option and Jari De Busser the long-term project, then Dominik Livakovic is undoubtedly the statement signing supporters would love to see arrive at Parkhead.
The Croatian international has built an excellent reputation over the years thanks to his performances at both club and international level. His displays during major international tournaments especially elevated his profile across Europe.
Many football fans still remember his incredible performances for Croatia on the world stage, where he regularly delivered under immense pressure against elite opposition.
That type of mentality is exactly what Celtic supporters admire.
Playing for Celtic requires confidence, composure, and mental toughness. The pressure from fans and media can become intense very quickly, particularly during difficult moments. Livakovic has already proven he can handle huge occasions.
At 31 years old, he remains firmly within the peak years for a goalkeeper. Unlike outfield players, goalkeepers often maintain top-level performance for much longer, meaning Celtic could realistically get several excellent seasons from him.
Reports surrounding his future have generated significant speculation.
Although currently tied to Fenerbahce, suggestions that he could be available for around £4 million have naturally attracted attention from supporters dreaming about a marquee signing.
For Celtic, that fee would still represent a major investment by Scottish football standards, but one many fans would gladly support if it meant bringing genuine Champions League-level quality to the squad.
Livakovic’s qualities are obvious.
He is an excellent shot-stopper, commands his penalty area well, and possesses huge experience at both domestic and international level. He also appears comfortable playing in high-pressure atmospheres, which is essential at Celtic Park.
Another major advantage is leadership.
Celtic are likely to undergo changes within the squad over the next year, and having experienced figures becomes extremely important during transitional periods. Livakovic could instantly become one of the leaders within the dressing room.
However, there are obstacles.
Competition from other clubs could complicate any potential deal, while wages may also become an issue. Players of Livakovic’s quality usually attract strong interest from leagues offering significantly higher salaries than Scottish football.
There is also the possibility he could prefer a move elsewhere, particularly if clubs from larger European leagues enter negotiations.
Still, football transfers often become unpredictable during the summer window.
If circumstances align correctly, Celtic may feel this is a rare opportunity worth exploring.
Even if the chances remain relatively slim compared to other targets, supporters would undoubtedly welcome a player of Livakovic’s calibre with enormous excitement.
Why Celtic Cannot Afford to Get This Wrong
Goalkeeper is arguably the most unforgiving position on the pitch.
A striker can miss chances and still score later. A midfielder can lose possession and recover moments afterwards. But goalkeepers are judged heavily on mistakes, especially at clubs with huge expectations like Celtic.
That is why recruitment in this area is absolutely critical.
Celtic know they must find the right balance between affordability, reliability, experience, and long-term planning. The club cannot simply sign a goalkeeper for the sake of adding numbers to the squad.
Whoever arrives will likely face immediate pressure to perform.
European football adds another layer of importance to the decision. Celtic supporters desperately want stronger performances on the continental stage, and reliable goalkeeping often becomes the difference between progressing and disappointment.
Big saves change seasons.
The Hoops will therefore spend significant time evaluating potential options before making a final decision.
Some fans may prefer the proven experience of Mathew Ryan. Others may view Jari De Busser as the smarter long-term investment. Meanwhile, many supporters would love the ambition shown by signing Dominik Livakovic.
Each goalkeeper offers different strengths and different levels of risk.
What remains clear, however, is that Celtic are unlikely to ignore the position this summer.
As preparations continue for another massive season domestically and in Europe, all eyes will now be on whether the Hoops move quickly in the transfer market to secure their next number one.