Celtic are reportedly considering a move for Newcastle United’s Freddie Woodman. The goalkeeper has just finished a loan stint with Championship play-off finalists Swansea City but is pondering his next move after being told he is fourth choice under Steve Bruce. According to The Chronicle, Celtic are one of a few clubs that are considering a move for Woodman, namely Swansea, Southampton and managerless Celtic.
The player has two years remaining on his current deal and seems to be hesitant to remain at Newcastle if he is so far down the pecking order. Although, the rumour that The Magpies are interested in Celtic’s Kris Ajer may give rise to a player plus cash swap for Ajer with Woodman acting as a makeweight.
Woodman represents a long-term No.1 option. Much like Fraser Forster, Woodman has struggled to nail down a starting role at St James’ Park and has been forced to go on loan to play football. The 24-year-old has spent the last two seasons on loan with Swansea City in the English Championship and has impressed despite giving away a penalty in the 2-0 loss to Brentford over the weekend.
However, with Martin Dubravka as the Magpies No.1, Woodman could seek a move elsewhere in the search for permanent, first-team football. The move to Scotland won’t daunt Woodman, with the ex-England U21 keeper having spent time on loan with Kilmarnock as well as Aberdeen.
Celtic are in need of some stability between the nets as since Fraser Forster and Craig Gordon left, there have been three goalkeepers given runs in the team – Vasilis Barkas, Scott Bain and Conor Hazard.