Southampton’s manager Russell Martin has expressed his intention to secure a new contract for goalkeeper Alex McCarthy this summer, amid interest from Celtic.
McCarthy, whose contract is set to expire at the end of next month, has yet to sign an extension, leaving him potentially available as a free agent.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper played in Southampton’s return to the Premier League, featuring in all the playoff matches, including a victorious final against Leeds United at Wembley.
His performance has not only solidified his importance to the team but also attracted attention from other clubs, with Liverpool and Newcastle United reportedly considering him as a potential addition to their squads.
Russell Martin praised McCarthy’s contributions, particularly in the absence of injured first-choice keeper Gavin Bazunu. He said: [ Southern Daily Echo] “Big Al, I guess I’m a bit of an idiot for not playing him a bit sooner but I think we have such a brilliant goalkeeping department here with Gavin [Bazunu] and Joe [Lumley] as well. I’m so pleased for Al that it finished in this way.
“He’s been immense since he came in so we’ll try and keep Al as well and we’ll keep our fingers crossed. It’s my job now to try and squeeze more money out of Phil (Parsons, CEO) and the board and everyone and see where it takes us.”
McCarthy now faces a significant decision regarding his future, with multiple clubs potentially ready to offer him a new start if negotiations with Southampton falter.
Celtic have many goalkeepers on their list. It’s believed that they will look to sign an older goalkeeper for little money.
