Celtic ruled out of goalkeeper transfer race as asking price named

Celtic's chances of landing one of their reported goalkeeper targets have been effectively ended. The Bhoys are on the lookout for a new starting keeper after losing Kasper Schmeichel to injury this summer.

The veteran stopped picked up a serious shoulder injury late last season that ultimately forced him into a retirement decision, but at 39 he will have few complaints. Celtic were also fortunate to have two good years out of the Premier League champion, but they must now find a replacement.

Celtic's goalkeeper search is being narrowed

It has always seemed as though Las Palmas goalkeeper Dinko Horkas has been the main target for Celtic this summer, likely to cost around £6million, and that could still be the case, with the club's search being narrowed further.

That's because one of their other reported targets, Manchester United keeper Radek Vitek is out of reach. According to the Daily Mail, United will ask for £15million to sell the goalkeeper this summer.

That's more than Celtic are going to pay for a goalkeeper this summer, and it effectively takes them out of the race, at least as far as a permanent deal is concerned, and that is the goalkeeper's preference this summer.

Vitek has already confirmed he is searching for a new club this summer, hoping to capitalise on an impressive loan spell with Bristol City last season. Premier League newcomers Hull City are also said to be interested this summer, and a £15million fee will likely be seen as much more accessible to them, especially after they sold Ivor Pandur to Rangers for around £6million this summer.

Celtic know they will need to spend a fair fee to land a new starting keeper this summer, but they are not going to be spending £15million on a keeper, especially with some of the other priorities they have this summer. Horkas looks to be the likely target at this stage.

Today's best reads

• Celtic 'target' confirms exit wish, Rangers receive European interest - SPFL transfer news
• Celtic handed major transfer boost as club 'ready to accept' bid
• Celtic hold advantage in goalkeeper transfer race as £6m bid lodged
• Celtic see second bid rejected as European club demand up to £6.7million
• Celtic's 3 most likely next exits and 3 most likely next signings

This article was originally published on thecelticbhoys.com as Celtic ruled out of goalkeeper transfer race as asking price named.