Celtic are reportedly in the market for a new goalkeeper this summer.
Kasper Schmeichel’s injury has forced the issue, with the Dane facing up to 10 months out after surgery. It leaves a gap that cannot be ignored, regardless of how well things have gone since.
Viljami Sinisalo has stepped in and made the jersey his own since February.
He has handled it well. Calm, reliable, and rarely flustered. There is a presence there that the Hoops have needed at times this season, but the club are still looking.
There is no sentiment in this position; there never is. If there is a chance to strengthen, they will take it.
One name now in the frame is Mathew Ryan.
The Australian is currently at Levante, with less than three months left on his deal. The Spanish side hold an option to extend, but his situation has clearly put clubs on alert.
Voetbal 24 reports that Celtic are among those watching closely.
The focus of that report is on Club Brugge, who are preparing for life after Simon Mignolet. The Belgian side are expected to move for a new number one, but Celtic are mentioned as direct competition.
That suggests this is more than loose interest.
Ryan is not an unknown quantity. He has spent time in England with Brighton and Arsenal, and has built a long international career with Australia.
At 34, he is not one for the long term, but Celtic didn’t have that in mind when signing both Schmeichel and Joe Hart.
Schmeichel’s situation creates uncertainty. Sinisalo is still relatively untested over a full campaign. Bringing in someone experienced, someone who understands the role and the pressure, fits the profile.
Ryan is also expected to remain Australia’s number one heading into the World Cup this summer.
That speaks to his level and his reliability, even at this stage of his career.
The next few months will shape how this plays out. Celtic will not be the only club in the mix, and Brugge’s need is clear. But the fact that they are already being viewed as competition tells its own story.
There is a decision to be made in this position. Sinisalo has done well, but Celtic are not standing still.
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