Celtic appear to have closed the door on any renewed interest in Republic of Ireland international Caoimhin Kelleher, despite the goalkeeper once being considered a possible target. Kelleher is now set to join Brentford, with the English Premier League club agreeing a deal with Liverpool that could be worth up to £18 million. Although he had previously been linked with a move to Parkhead, especially during the January 2024 window when questions were being raised about the long-term goalkeeping situation, Celtic have since taken a different direction.
Rather than making a move for Kelleher when Joe Hart’s retirement was approaching, manager Brendan Rodgers chose to rely on existing options, ultimately bringing in Kasper Schmeichel in the summer. The Danish veteran arrived on a free transfer from Anderlecht and has since become an important part of the squad. Even at 38, Schmeichel has brought experience and calm to the back line, and during the season, he signed a one-year extension, reinforcing Rodgers’ confidence in the club’s current structure.
Despite Celtics’ unlikely acquisition of Kelleher in goal fans shouldn’t be too concerned as Schmeichel should still be more than capable to help keep balls from entering the back of the net, as such many punters will still likely be placing wagers on the Hoops to keep clean sheets at the best non GamStop UK betting sites as they offer punters competitive football odds, fast payouts through flexible transaction methods, and enticing bonuses like welcome rewards, cashback offers, and free bets, making them the ideal platform to back the Hoops for another impressive defensive record next season.
Celtic’s decision not to pursue Kelleher further reflects satisfaction with how the goalkeeper situation has developed. Viljami Sinisalo, who joined from Aston Villa for £1 million, has shown his value when called upon. During Schmeichel’s absence with a shoulder injury, Sinisalo stepped in and earned praise for his maturity and shot-stopping ability. His performances suggested he could challenge for a more regular role, and with Rodgers backing him, the club appears well covered for now.
The recent departure of Scott Bain, who spent over seven years at Celtic, has opened a gap in the depth chart, but that void is expected to be filled by someone more familiar with the club rather than a high-fee external signing. Ross Doohan, a former Celtic academy goalkeeper and now a free agent following his exit from Aberdeen, is reportedly close to making a return. His experience within the club system and availability without a fee make him an appealing option for a backup or third-choice role.
Celtic’s reluctance to join the race for Kelleher, despite his availability and desire for regular minutes, shows a clear shift in recruitment strategy. The club is no longer looking for short-term patches or high-cost solutions when capable alternatives are already in the building. Kelleher’s move to Brentford may benefit his career, offering the chance for consistent game time in the Premier League, but from Celtic’s perspective, the timing and financial demands never aligned.
While supporters may recall the strong links to Kelleher in previous windows, the club’s goalkeeping situation is now more settled than it was then. Between the leadership of Schmeichel, the development of Sinisalo, and the possible return of Doohan, Rodgers appears to have a clear plan. The focus remains on stability and smart reinforcement, not on revisiting targets who no longer fit Celtic’s evolving profile.
