The goalkeeper from Ipswich Town may be in the process of finalizing a pre-contract agreement with Celtic.
Celtic is currently in need of a new goalkeeper, as Joe Hart, who will turn 37 before the season concludes, has faced criticism recently. The club is urged to consider a long-term solution, with a 33-year-old English Championship player emerging as a potential answer.
While many Celtic fans prefer an experienced goalkeeper in their mid-20s, recent rumors link the club to Vaclav Hladky of Ipswich Town. Hladky, previously playing in the fourth division with Salford City FC, had a stint with St Mirren in Scotland and had unremarkable first two seasons with Ipswich Town.
However, the current season has seen a significant improvement for Hladky, who is excelling in the Championship as Ipswich Town competes for promotion, currently holding the second position in the table. Hladky’s contract with Ipswich Town expires this summer, allowing him to potentially sign a pre-contract with Celtic.
Football League World reported that Celtic is reportedly interested in signing the 33-year-old Czech international goalkeeper. Carlton Palmer noted that several Ipswich players could sign pre-contract agreements elsewhere in January, emphasizing Hladky’s potential move to Celtic.
Despite Hladky’s current success, some Celtic fans remain unconvinced about the prospect of signing him. While acknowledging his current prowess as a goalkeeper, concerns arise due to his age and relatively recent rise to a high level of play. The question remains whether Hladky, at 33, is a viable long-term solution for Celtic or merely a decent cover option, particularly if they face departures, such as Benjamin Siegrist leaving the team.
