The curtain finally fell on Joe Hart’s illustrious career at the weekend. The veteran Celtic ‘keeper went out on the most almighty of highs, keeping a clean sheet as the Hoops beat Rangers 1-0 in the Scottish Cup final to do the double.
The Englishman will leave a gaping hole in the squad but already, the club seem to be moving promptly to fill it.
The prospect of signing Koen Casteels was recently ruled out but a new name has emerged in the champions’ pursuit of a number one.
According to Turkish outlet Aksam, the new home of Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir will be Celtic.
The 26-year-old joined the Old Trafford side last summer from Fenerbache but it hasn’t worked out for him in England. He has made just one appearance for the Red Devils and will reportedly sign a four-year deal at Parkhead.
Respected in his homeland, Bayindir has eight senior Turkey caps. He also made 145 appearances for Fenerbache before departing for the English Premier League last summer.
Transfermarkt values the ‘keeper at 10 million euros and with three years remaining on his contract down south, it remains to be seen what sort of transfer fee is involved in any deal.
Regardless, if the report proves true, the addition of Bayindir this early in the window is hugely encouraging. His age profile is perfect and he seems like the quality that is needed between the sticks to replace Hart. Whatever the decision on Celtic’s next goalkeeper, it has to be spot on.
