Celtic transfer target pens new contract ending speculation

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The Celtic Star

·29 juin 2024

Celtic transfer target pens new contract ending speculation

Southampton’s Alex McCarthy has agreed a new contract to end speculation that he could be replacing Joe Hart at Celtic.

Alex McCarthy of Southampton during the Sky Bet Championship match between Southampton and Stoke City at St. Mary’s Stadium on April 27, 2024. (Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images)

The 34-year-old started the Play-off Final against Leeds as Russell Martin’s side gained promotion to the top flight. Although, his deal was due to expire at the end of the season which led to speculation that he would be leaving St Mary’s. Now, the keeper has agreed a two-year extension to his deal to extend his stay.

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Speaking to the official Saints website, McCarthy said that he was delighted to agree the deal.

“I’m delighted to extend my stay at a club which means so much to me and my family. To spend the best part of ten years here shows how special a place it is. The end of last season will always stay with me. Helping the club get back to where we belong is what we set out to do at the start of the season and I was happy to play my part. I really enjoy working with Dean [Thornton] and the goalkeepers we have here. I’m already looking forward to the new season and the test of Premier League football again.”

McCarthy has made 124 PL appearances for the Saints and will look to add to this as they challenge in the top flight.

Joe Hart of Celtic applauds the fans after the UEFA Champions League match between SS Lazio and Celtic FC at Stadio Olimpico on November 28, 2023 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Celtic are looking for a new No.1 to replace Hart after he made the decision to retire at the end of last season. The 37-year-old signed off with a Double to complete an incredible season. Arguably the catalyst for the season was the Englishman’s decision to retire as it united the dressing room to ensure that the goalie was given an appropriate send off.

The club are reportedly in discussions with a goalkeeping candidate as they look to replace Hart but there have been a number of names mentioned but fans are no further forward in knowing who’ll be wearing the No.1 jersey.