Celtic’s Goalkeeper Plan Emerges Amid Nick Pope Links

Celtic have made no contact with Nick Pope or his representatives despite reports linking the Newcastle United goalkeeper with a move to Parkhead.

CeltsAreHere understands there is no truth in claims that talks have taken place over a possible summer switch.

Reports online had suggested Celtic were among several clubs to have made enquiries about Pope’s availability, with the England international tipped to leave Newcastle before the end of the transfer window.

However, no approach has been made by Celtic. The Hoops are still looking to add a goalkeeper this summer, but their search is focused on finding competition and cover rather than replacing Viljami Sinisalo as first choice.

Sinisalo started Celtic’s opening Premiership win over Dundee and made an important late save to protect the 1-0 victory at Celtic Park.

CeltsAreHere understands that the Finland international is currently viewed as Martin O’Neill’s number one, with Celtic looking to sign another goalkeeper as cover.

That makes a move for Pope highly unlikely.

The 34-year-old has spent the past four seasons with Newcastle and would arrive expecting to challenge for regular first-team football. His wages would also make little sense for a player being considered as cover.

Celtic’s goalkeeper search remains one of several areas being worked on before the transfer window closes, although it is not the club’s main priority at present.

A midfielder and winger are understood to be higher on the list, while left-back cover is also being considered.

The club’s interest in adding another goalkeeper is genuine, but reports naming Pope appear to have missed the type of signing Celtic are trying to make.

O’Neill already has Sinisalo in place and is not currently looking to bring in a new first-choice option.

The focus is instead on finding a dependable number two who can provide cover across a busy domestic and European season.