Report: Celtic shortlist three Premier League goalkeepers, in case Forster departs

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Chilean outlet The Times have claimed that Celtic have shortlisted three Premier League goalkeepers including Manchester City veteran Claudio Bravo this summer – in case a permanent move for Fraser Forster falls through.

Forster has starred on loan at Celtic since his return to the club from Southampton on loan – and Neil Lennon has publicly stated that he is hopeful of keeping the England international as well as Mo Elyounoussi, who are both on loan from the Saints.

However, Celtic have back-up options, too. Bravo, 37, could be brought to Parkhead this summer as a replacement – with his £80,000-a-week (Spotrac) Manchester City contract expiring. Two English options are also being considered.

Watford star Ben Foster, also 37, managed 29 Premier League appearances this season but he is also out of contract this summer. Slightly younger at 33, Burnley’s Joe Hart is also an option – and would also be available on a free.

TBR’s view – If Forster is unavailable, which is the best option?

Keeping Forster is crucial but there is a real chance that Southampton may prevent another loan, and Celtic may be unable to afford him permanently. So, which of Hart, Bravo or Foster should be signed?

The best of the three right now is Foster, given that he has played all of Watford’s Premier League games so far. Still a top goalkeeper, he should be strongly considered. Bravo is old, expensive and riddled with mistakes whenever he takes to the field.

Foster is a better option than Bravo and although he is the best of the three, Hart is four years younger than the other two goalkeepers and just needs regular game time to rediscover his true form. Hart should be targeted.