Sources: Celtic working on Schmeichel replacement, it’s a priority deal

Celtic have made the search for a new first-choice goalkeeper a key focus of their transfer planning, with club sources indicating that finding a successor to Kasper Schmeichel has become a top priority ahead of next season.

The experienced Danish international has faced increasing criticism over his performances during the current campaign, with both supporters and pundits questioning his reliability in crucial moments. With Schmeichel’s contract set to expire in the summer, Celtic are already exploring their options in the goalkeeping market as they look to secure long-term stability between the posts.

Football Insider previously reported in early December that Celtic were actively considering replacements for Schmeichel, and it is now understood that the club could even move earlier than expected. While the initial plan focused on a summer change, sources suggest that a January arrival is now a realistic possibility if the right candidate becomes available.

Schmeichel remains one of the club’s highest earners, and with performances failing to fully justify that outlay, the club hierarchy are keen to act decisively. There is a clear intention to identify and recruit a new number one as soon as possible, rather than delaying the decision and risking further uncertainty next season.

Within the current squad, Viljami Sinisalo is not yet viewed as ready to assume the role of first-choice goalkeeper on a permanent basis. While the young Finn is highly regarded and seen as a prospect for the future, Celtic believe he still lacks the experience required to lead the defensive line at the highest level.

One name that has emerged prominently in discussions is Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega. Football Insider revealed last month that Celtic are monitoring Ortega’s situation closely, with his contract at the Etihad Stadium due to expire next summer.

Ortega has found opportunities limited at City, currently sitting behind Gianluigi Donnarumma and James Trafford in the goalkeeping hierarchy. Even Marcus Bettinelli has occasionally been preferred as a third-choice option, leaving Ortega with little chance of regular first-team football.

Despite this, the 33-year-old boasts a strong pedigree. He has made more than 65 appearances in the Bundesliga and has proven to be a dependable deputy in the Premier League since joining Manchester City in 2022. His experience at elite level makes him an appealing option for Celtic, who are seeking a reliable and authoritative presence in goal.

The fact that Ortega will be available on a free transfer next summer enhances his appeal, particularly given Celtic’s history of negotiating favourable deals with Manchester City in recent seasons. That established relationship could ease discussions, especially if City are willing to facilitate a January exit.

Pep Guardiola is reportedly open to trimming his goalkeeping department, and there is an appetite at City to move Ortega on sooner rather than later. Should that stance remain, Celtic could find themselves in a strong position to strike a deal during the winter window.

Meanwhile, Schmeichel’s position has come under even greater scrutiny following Celtic’s recent defeat to Rangers in the Old Firm derby. The 3–1 loss at Parkhead proved to be a turning point, marking the end of Wilfried Nancy’s brief spell in charge.

Celtic entered half-time with a narrow lead, but the match unraveled after the break as Rangers seized control. Once again, frustrations among the Celtic support were directed toward defensive frailties and goalkeeping errors.

Schmeichel has already been criticised several times this season and was notably left out of the starting line-up for the away win against Livingston on 27 December. His return to the side for the derby did little to ease concerns.

During the Rangers match, Schmeichel conceded three goals from just four shots on target, a statistic that further fuelled criticism. His role in Rangers’ third goal drew particular attention, with the veteran goalkeeper unable to keep out Mikey Moore’s effort, which slipped under his outstretched arm and into the net.

That moment was widely viewed as emblematic of Schmeichel’s inconsistent form this season. While his experience and leadership have been valued, a series of costly mistakes has increasingly overshadowed those qualities.

As a result, Celtic’s hierarchy appear to have reached a point where decisive action is required. The combination of Schmeichel’s age, wage demands, contract situation, and recent performances has accelerated the club’s plans to secure a replacement.

With the January transfer window approaching, Celtic are now weighing whether to act immediately or continue preparations for a summer overhaul. Either way, the message from within the club is clear: resolving the goalkeeping situation is no longer optional, but a priority as Celtic look to rebuild and compete at the highest level next season.