Celtic goalkeeping target Martin Dubravka was painstakingly knocked out of the Euros with Slovakia on Sunday night, fuelling rumours a move to Glasgow could be accelerated.It is no secret the Hoops are on the lookout for a new number one following Joe Hart’s retirement at the end of last season.
The Englishman had a memorable three years at Parkhead in which he won seven domestic trophies out of nine and became a true fan favourite
Finding a replacement for the Englishman hasn’t proved simple so far, but Dubravka looks as though he might be the man who is eventually drafted in.
At 35, he is no youngster but he still plays at the top level. He was reliable for his nation at the Euros but while he was in Germany, his club Newcastle were busy in the transfer market.
Indeed, over the past few days, the club have signed goalkeepers Odisseas Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest and John Ruddy from Birmingham City. This, coupled with Nick Pope’s return to fitness, means it doesn’t look like there’s a place in the Northeast for Dubravka next season.
When asked about these recent signings by his club and what is happening, Dubravka admitted he’s not entirely sure.
“I have no idea”, he said (Daily Mail).
“I have seen they are talking with other goalkeepers. I need to speak with the manager first. What is the plan for me? What is my future? I don’t know if they want me to stay or not. It is difficult for me, because I have been focussed on my job with the national team.”
Given Newcastle’s acquisitions and the recent rumours surrounding Dubravka, all indications point towards a move to Celtic for the stopper.
His age profile won’t entice many supporters, but as he has displayed at the Euros, he remains dependable.
