Celtic are interested in signing Bodo/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Haikin, according to a report from Football Insider.Â
The lowdown: Wanted man
Previously, the 26-year-old stopper was heavily linked with English Premier League clubs, including Watford and Norwich City.
Neither move ultimately materialised and the Russia youth international continues to ply his trade in Sweden following an arrival as a free agent in 2019.
Now, having impressed in the Europa Conference League, including against the Hoops at Parkhead, making five saves, one punch and one high claim back in February (Sofascore), Haikin could once again be on the agenda on these shores…
The latest: FI makes claim
As per an FI recruitment source, Celtic and Wolves are both keen on signing the twice-capped Under-21 ace this summer.
The report claims that the Bhoys are ‘in the market for a new goalkeeper’ at the end of the season and have placed Haikin ‘on the radar’ at Parkhead.
It’s also claimed that the Allsvenskan club could cash in on the former Chelsea, Portsmouth and Reading youth prospect, who has been hailed as ‘fantastic’ by journalist Sander Pipita, should a £500,000 valuation be met.
The verdict: A possible successor?
Ange Postecoglou pulled off a masterstroke with the signing of Joe Hart and the vastly experienced man has enjoyed a stellar campaign for the Hoops, keeping 25 clean sheets in 50 appearances across all competitions.
So far this season, Haikin has made on average 2.8 saves per game with a save percentage of 65% , compared to 1.4 at 73% from the Englishman.
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However, with Hart now 35 it’s no surprise to see that Postecoglou would already be turning his attention toward a successor and Haikin, with his European exploits and bargain fee, could be the ideal candidate.
In other news, pundit believes Celtic are working on a secret transfer deal. Find out who it is here.
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