If a recent update from the Scottish transfer expert Mark Hendry (as cited by The Herald) is believed to be true, Celtic are eyeing a move for Aleksander Bobek to bolster themselves between the sticks. The Polish custodian will be a free agent in the summer, and the Hoops, having scouted him extensively in recent months, could make their move before Monday’s deadline.
The 21-year-old goalkeeper progressed through the academy ranks of ŁKS Lodz before featuring for their reserves in the lower division. Soon, he was promoted to the first team and has since appeared 89 times across competitions. While they are heading towards a mid-table finish in the second division, Bobek has impressed in the last line of defence, with his shot-stopping traits and concentration.
Besides representing Poland at various youth levels, Bobek has so far conceded 17 goals and registered five clean sheets in 14 league appearances [stats via Transfermarket]. The numbers look impressive, considering his age and experience, and with no such competition for the youngster as of now, the Hoops must secure his services in due time.
Celtic have not learned from the mistakes made in the summer, as they have left it late yet again with just two loan signings so far this window. They are chasing multiple names in an attempt to tie them down before Monday’s deadline and, therefore, should prioritise first-team signings over project players.
Why Celtic Should Wrap Up The Deal
Having said that, the Bhoys have not stopped snapping up strategic, long-term acquisitions with a view to building the foundation for future success. Currently, they have three senior goalkeepers in Kasper Schmeichel, Viljami Sinisalo, and the summer recruit Ross Doohan. The 39-year-old Dane remains the first-choice under Martin O’Neill, but his reflexes and agility are no longer the same as they used to be during his Premier League years.
Sinisalo, waiting for his opportunities since the previous campaign, has impressed in limited minutes. He holds all the traits to become the ‘number 1’ if Schmeichel departs in June upon the expiration of his Parkhead contract. Doohan, 27, has not at all been involved following his summer arrival from Aberdeen, and the club must restore parity in goal to challenge and cover their senior shotstoppers.
Although they might bring in an experienced keeper as Schmeichel’s immediate successor, either Doohan or Sinisalo could be allowed to leave for minutes in the near future. Celtic should sign Bobek this month for a cut-price deal, or at least strike a pre-contract agreement to have him on a Bosman before next season.
