Free-agent Bosnian international ‘being watched’ by Celtic as he speaks on his future
One of Celtic’s biggest tasks this summer is replacing goalkeeper Joe Hart after retirement. The net is being cast far and wide to find the perfect candidate.
Hart made a superb impact on Celtic. Across 153 appearances he won seven trophies and became a dressing room leader at the club, hailed by teammates, supporters and coaching staff.
His presence will be a big miss within the group next term and Celtic must get recruitment in the position right in the upcoming transfer window.
One player said to be of interest is Bosnia and Herzegovina international shot-stopper Kenan Piric. The Daily Star reports he is ‘being watched’ by the Bhoys alongside Southampton and Sheffield United.
The free-agent, who left Cypriot side AEK Larnaca at the end of the 2023/24 season, is hoping to impress on international duty against England on Monday night.
Kenan PIRIC of AEK Larnaca during the UEFA Europa League match between AEK Larnaca and Rennes at AEK Arena on September 8, 2022 in Larnaca, Cyprus.
Celtic target Kenan Piric speaks about his future
He told the paper: “England are one of the best teams in the world with one of the best forward lines in the world. Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden…it’s a huge game and a massive test for us.
“We’re in the shop window, with the chance to show our qualities. I’ve just had two good seasons with Larnaca and now want to challenge myself in one of Europe’s top leagues.”
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Piric spent two seasons in Cyprus and also has playing experience in his homeland, Slovenia and Greece. The goalkeeper also has experience in Europe, making 30 appearances in UEFA competitions including the Europa League group stages.
Celtic are said to be on the hunt for two goalkeepers this summer with Benjamin Siegrist also set to leave the club, so scouts will be looking for players at all levels to fill out Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
Whether interest in Piric firms up or not remains to be seen but he’s another name to add to the list of the many goalkeepers linked ahead of the summer.