Joe Hart has six games remaining in his professional career, at which point he’ll wave goodbye to Celtic and hang up his gloves for good.
The veteran goalkeeper announced his retirement earlier this year and is eager to end it all on a massive high by helping secure a league and cup double with the Bhoys.
Celtic meanwhile are already planning ahead to source his replacement. It’s crucial that there’s a proper succession plan in place and that the club don’t let the situation drag on all summer.
The Bhoys have been linked with various shot-stoppers over the last few months including Liverpool back-up Caoimhin Kelleher and Sunderland star Anthony Patterson.
Now another name has popped up – former Stoke City and Chelsea star Asmir Begovic, who currently plays with Queens Park Rangers in the English Championship.
Celtic stick Asmir Begovic on summer shortlist
Radio station Talksport reports that the Bhoys are showing interest in the former Bosnia & Herzegovina number one, who is out of contract at the end of the season.
However, it’s stated that Begovic has not yet closed the door on signing a new contract and remaining at QPR, where he’s made 46 appearances this term.
Nonetheless, a move to Glasgow may appeal if he fancies a push for trophies and European football before he retires himself.
Begovic wouldn’t be a long-term solution for Celtic
Turning 37 this summer, Begovic is only a few months younger than Hart, so he wouldn’t be the long-term solution that Celtic arguably need with their next goalkeeping move.
But the Bhoys know the current market and if there isn’t a viable talent out there to become that multi-year number one then a signing like this becomes more feasible.
Begovic certainly has plenty of elite experience, featuring over 250 times in the Premier League, playing in the Champions League and earning over 60 caps for his country. That may well tempt Brendan Rodgers when it comes to recruiting for such a crucial position.