“Kasper Schmeichel: The Perfect Fit for Celtic’s Goalkeeping Needs”
The news about Kasper Schmeichel joining Celtic has finally given supporters some much-needed excitement this summer.
Schmeichel is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days and sign an initial one-year contract. Celtic is finalizing the details of this free transfer, which addresses a crucial need for the club – finding a replacement for Joe Hart.
After months of vague links to numerous goalkeepers, the Bhoys have made a decisive move to secure a new number one.
Some fans had anticipated Celtic would invest in a younger goalkeeper who could serve as the club’s shot-stopper for several years. However, Brendan Rodgers has opted for experience once again.
For Celtic legend Kenny Dalglish, this is not a concern. He believes this deal is a “no-brainer” for the Bhoys.
Peter Schmeichel move is “excellent” for Celtic
He said [Sunday Post, 14/07 print edition]: “Celtic need to acquire a quality goalkeeper this summer, and it appears it will be Kasper Schmeichel. Negotiations are underway for a one-year deal, and no issues are expected. He should be on the plane this midweek for the three-game tour of the US.
“I think it’s an excellent piece of business. Brendan Rodgers knows him well from their time together at Leicester City, and Kasper seems like the type of professional who will fill the gap left by Joe Hart both on and off the field.
Sure, Kasper is actually five months older than Joe, but that doesn’t worry me. He is still just 37, has been Denmark’s No. 1 at the Euros, and had excellent stats from his time at Anderlecht last season. We all know that Joe appeared to have a couple of years left in him. Also, Craig Gordon is still playing into his 40s. Allan McGregor was great for Rangers at 40 too.
“So, all things considered, and with no transfer fee involved, this transfer is a no-brainer. It means funds set aside for this window can be used elsewhere in the team. This was a crucial position for Celtic to address, and it seems they have done it well.”
Schmeichel is still performing at the highest level as a goalkeeper. As Dalglish mentioned, his season with Anderlecht in Belgium was quite impressive, leading in key metrics like save percentage and prevented goals.
The veteran goalkeeper earned his spot in the Denmark squad for Euro 2024, playing in all four of their matches. He continues to compete at the top level.
As we discussed yesterday, his save percentage and prevented goals were significantly higher than Hart’s. He is more than capable of filling the gap left by the Englishman’s retirement.
Additionally, Schmeichel has leadership qualities, having captained both Leicester and his national team. This will be a valuable addition to the dressing room, supporting Callum McGregor.
The signing meets many of the club’s needs. While the scouting department hasn’t discovered an unknown talent, the crucial point is that Schmeichel is expected to be successful on the pitch.