CeltsAreHere understands Celtic have done serious groundwork on a move for Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, with the Hoops now poised to open talks with the English Championship side over a potential loan deal.
Martin O’Neill has been heavily involved behind the scenes and has held talks with Johnstone’s agent.
Michael Nicholson is now expected to step up discussions, with O’Neill believed to be a huge admirer of the former England international.
Celtic are hopeful of agreeing an option to buy as part of any deal for Johnstone. However, if that cannot be included, a straight loan should still be possible, with the goalkeeper currently surplus to requirements under César Peixoto.
The development comes after journalist Alan Nixon reported on his Patreon that the Bhoys had a £2.5 million bid rejected for Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Balázs Tóth earlier today.
Tóth’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and he has reportedly rejected the offer of a new deal at Tony Mowbray’s side.
Celtic are unlikely to pay £4 million for the Hungarian goalkeeper, although there appears to be room for compromise between the clubs. CeltsAreHere understands a deal could potentially be done for around £3.5 million, with the pressure on Blackburn to accept closer to £3 million the longer talks continue.
The Hoops will not sign both goalkeepers, with the current choice appearing to be between Tóth and Johnstone ahead of Wednesday night’s Europa League squad registration deadline.
Currently, the Tóth deal is slightly more advanced, with an official bid already lodged. However, CeltsAreHere understands that if an agreement cannot be reached, a move for Johnstone will be explored.
The Englishman would bring considerably more experience, while the possibility of a loan could make the deal easier to structure financially.
With Celtic now working on both options, the coming days should determine which goalkeeper O’Neill adds to his squad.
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