Celtic faces a significant challenge in finding a successor for Joe Hart following the goalkeeper’s announcement of retirement at the end of this season. Hart’s stellar performances under Brendan Rodgers at Celtic have been admirable, and his departure will leave a void in the team’s leadership.

Hart’s heroics have often salvaged crucial points for Celtic this season, earning him immense praise. While many would have preferred him to stay on for another year, the reality is that the club needs to swiftly prioritize the search for a new goalkeeper in the upcoming transfer window.

Although rumors linked Celtic to Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, the speculated high transfer fee may impede any potential deal. As a result, manager Brendan Rodgers must explore alternative options to fill the void left by Hart’s imminent departure.

One touted candidate had been Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin, a player Celtic had shown interest in during previous transfer windows. However, recent reports suggest that Real Madrid is keen on extending Lunin’s contract, as they consider him a valuable asset for the future.

Lunin, who has excelled in recent appearances for the Spanish giants, has likely diminished any hopes Celtic had of securing his services, even on loan. His form and progression within Real Madrid’s squad indicate that his departure is increasingly unlikely, leaving Celtic to explore other avenues in their search for a new goalkeeper.

It seems that Rodgers and Celtic may have to start over because Vasilis Barkas has shown us that we cannot risk making another mistake when it comes to recruiting for this crucial position on the team.