Celtic are eyeing a move for Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, according to a report from the Daily Record.
The newspaper reported in their print edition (11 May, page 52) that Brendan Rodgers believes the Slovakian goalkeeper can do a similar job at Celtic Park as Joe Hart did.
Hart spent three successful seasons at Celtic and announced his retirement at the end of last season. The Bhoys are looking to sign a new goalkeeper and Rodgers has earmarked the 35-year-old Magpies stopper as a possible option.
Dubravka initially joined Newcastle on loan before the move was made permanent. He has made over 160 appearances for the club, and played regularly in the second half of the campaign after Nick Pope got injured.
However, the Magpies are looking to add a new goalkeeper this summer, and they have been linked with James Trafford. If he arrives, Dubravka will be allowed to leave.
Should Celtic go after Martin Dubravka?
The Slovakian is a vastly experienced player and he can easily continue playing for another two or three years at the top level. Last season, Eddie Howe hailed him as an “outstanding” player, and he could do a similar role as Hart did for the Scottish champions.
Celtic have been linked with a move for Belgium international goalkeeper Koen Casteel, while Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has also been targeted.
Given Dubravka’s age, he would come at a measly fee, something Celtic can easily afford. The real problem, however, is to persuade him to move to Scotland.
He has been targeted by several Saudi Pro League clubs, who can definitely offer him a lot of money. At Celtic, Dubravka can play in European competitions, and be a part of a side that will challenge for trophies next season. Whether he will use it as a motivation, especially towards the fag end of his career, remains to be seen.
