If a report from Mundo Deportivo is believed to be true, Celtic are expected to table an offer for Horațiu Moldovan. The Atletico Madrid goalkeeper is unhappy about the lack of minutes at Metroplitano and the Hoops, therefore, could opt for him as Joe Hart’s successor in the last line of defence.
“I want to leave Atlético Madrid in the summer or winter. It depends on the opportunities that arise, but I want to go to play. Atlético cannot be rejected, but I want to play. If a good team from a big league comes along, I would like to go. We will see what offers appear.”
Told the 26-year-old Romania international (as quoted by Mundo Deportivo). He is valued at around €2.50m despite completing a minuscule €800,000 transfer from Rapid București only a few months ago.
Moldovan progressed through the academy ranks of CFR Cluj but failed to break into their senior squad. He spent years on loan with Hermannstadt, Voința Turnu Măgurele and Energeticianul in the lower leagues before plying his trade to the second-tier Romanian outfit Ripensia Timișoara on permanent terms. After a brief and unsuccessful top-flight stint with Sepsi OSK, the shot-stopper returned to Ripensia for regular gametime. A spell with UTA Arad did not work out either, however, the Bosman move to Rapid București changed his fortunes forever.
His scintillating years with the Rafters earned him a high-profile January transfer. Rojiblancos secured his services as the understudy to Jan Oblak, but he has not featured ever since as the Solvenian retained his starting status in all competitions. Moldovan, in his mid-twenties, must not waste time as the second-fiddle of a world-class custodian and the Bhoys, too, must grab this opportunity to resolve their goalkeeper conundrum for years to come.
Why Moldovan Would Be a Smart Signing For Celtic
Brendan Rodgers is well-equipped across the outfield with ample depth and quality. They are going slow in the window in terms of incomings, and the gaffer would only sanction reinforcements if the squad strength enhances en route to re-establishing Celtic’s status as a competitive European force.
Having said that, the Northern Irishman must script a revamp between the sticks with Scott Bain being the only senior name available for selection. Benjamin Siegirst does not have a future at Parkhead and the rumours surrounding Moldovan, as well as Yvon Mvogo, Asmir Begovic, Martin Dubravka, Dominik Livakovic and Peter Vindahl Jensen, depict how extensively they are exploring the market for a new ‘number 1’.
