Andriy Lunin Celtic transfer latest as Real Madrid to make January decision

Celtic’s chances of signing Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin could become clearer next month.

The Ukrainian custodian was linked with a summer move to Parkhead and is thought to be on a shortlist of potential long-term replacements for Joe Hart. Any departure from the Bernabeu, however, could be contingent on whether or not he is handed the gloves by manager Carlo Ancelotti for the remainder of the season.

With on-loan keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga out injured, the 24-year-old has excelled between the sticks for Madrid in recent months. With Thibaut Courtois likely to miss the entire season as he recovers from an ACL injury, both Kepa and Lunin are vying for the No. 1 jersey.
Lunin’s preference would be to stay with the Spanish heavyweights when his contract expires at the end of the season, but the goalie will not be short of interest from elsewhere as he seeks more game time. He will be able to begin pre-contract talks with other clubs on January 1 with the intention of joining on a free transfer in the summer.
With Brendan Rodgers actively looking for a new custodian, Hoops veteran Hart, 36, is expected to call time on his three years in Glasgow in May. While Lunin would fit the bill, his future could be determined by who Ancelotti trusts in 2024. Kepa returned to goal for last night’s La Liga win away to Alaves, keeping a clean sheet, and Ancelotti has confirmed that he will now decide who will start for him in the New Year.

Ancelotti stated prior to last night’s game, “I don’t intend on rotating in goal.” They’re both doing fine. Lunin has made significant progress and demonstrated a high level of confidence, while Kepa has maintained his level. I wanted to reward both of them when Kepa recovered from his injury. Kepa will play tomorrow, and I will select one of the two in the second half of the season.”

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