Report: Southampton explore goalkeeper options but Fraser Forster will remain at Celtic

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Southampton will not be able to recall Fraser Forster from his loan spell at Celtic – despite looking for a new goalkeeper.

Ralph Hasenhuttl wants to sign a new goalkeeper in January as Southampton struggle defensively. But there is no recall clause in Forster’s season-long loan with Celtic, according to The Telegraph.

Celtic signed Forster in the summer to ease their own goalkeeper problems. Scott Bain and Craig Gordon were unable to convince Neil Lennon to stick with the current options.

Forster previously played for Celtic, playing nearly 200 times between 2010 and 2014 after initially signing on loan from Newcastle United. Since moving south, the 6ft 7in giant has played over 100 times for Southampton and represented England on six occasions.

But Southampton dropped him and he managed just one game in the whole of last season. Disillusioned, he returned to Celtic on loan and has become a fan favourite again. His performance in the Betfred Cup final highlighted his importance as he saved a penalty and produced a man of the match display.

Celtic will be eager to sign him permanently. But, at the very least, he will remain at Parkhead for the rest of this season.

TBR’s view

Keeping Forster is a huge boost for Celtic and this arrangement could play into their hands. Hasenhuttl is not confident in either Angus Gunn or Alex McCarthy so Southampton are weighing up their options.

With no recall clause for Forster, Southampton could sign a new goalkeeper. Celtic fans will be hoping they do so that their task of signing Forster is made easier next summer.