According to the reports from Greek media outlet SDNA.Gr, Celtic are considering signing Greece international goalkeeper Vasilios Barkas. The Hoops have been linked with the custodian in the last few weeks as well, and new reports suggest that the Bhoys can move in for him in January or next summer. The goalkeeper currently plies his trade for AEK Athens.
Athens’ technical director is said to be looking for possible suitors for Barkas. It is believed that he is looking for an offer in the region of €7-8m. French outfit Montpellier came up with an offer of €4.5m in the summer which was rejected by the Greek heavyweights.
Do Celtic need goalkeepers?
The Hoops brought in Fraser Forster on a season-long loan from Southampton this summer after Scott Bain suffered a severe injury. The Scottish goalkeeper is close to coming back, and Bain had recently signed a new deal with the Bhoys which would keep him at the club until 2023.
However, Bain could very likely continue to be the backup choice even when he returns from injury. Forster has been exceptional so far this season. Many of the club faithful would want Forster to sign permanently. However, the English goalkeeper’s current contract with Saints is up until 2022, and we think that he will cost a premium, especially after his recent performances. His wages can also be an issue, and Celtic might have to break the bank to sign Forster permanently. Hence there is no guarantee that Forster will stay at Parkhead beyond this season.
Craig Gordon is likely to become the third choice option when Bain becomes available. We believe that the Scotsman is expected to leave the club by next summer as his deal expires when the current season ends. Therefore Celtic could end up losing lose two goalkeepers by next summer, and it is understandable why the Hoops are eying a move for someone like Barkas.
On which front Barkas might be better than Forster?
Barkas is 25, which can be considered as a young age for a goalkeeper. He can be a long term option for the Hoops in goal. The Greece international is regarded highly, and he even has Champions League experience under his belt. Barkas stands in at 6ft5, and he has impressive shot-stopping skills.
It will be understandable if Celtic decide to spend big money on Forster instead of Barkas. However, Barkas will be a better business deal as we think that he will come in cheaper than Forster as he is valued at around €7-8m. Moreover, he is younger than Forster, so his resale value will also be higher. It remains to be seen what Lennon and Celtic’s team management will decide.
