If a recent report from The Daily Mail is believed to be true, Celtic are keen to boost their goalkeeping ranks and have identified Nikolas Polster as a summer target. But they are not alone in the hunt, with Wolves, Brentford, Bright & Hove Albion from England, as well as French side St Etienne also keeping close tabs on the Wolfsberger AC ‘number 1’.
The 23-year-old Austrian youth international progressed through the academy ranks of Rapid Wien back in his homeland, but eventually left for LASK on a Bosman. There, he spent his time out on loan at Juniors OÖ, Vorwärts Steyr and Horn for regular football.
Fellow top-flight outfit Wolfsberger AC tied him down for €500k in the summer of 2024 and handed him an immediate first-team status in all competitions. Polster played a key role in their 2024–25 Austrian Cup triumph and has maintained his starting slot as the RZ Pellets battle for their survival in the Austrian Bundesliga.
Why Celtic Are Chasing A New Keeper
The youngster has so far featured 66 times for Wolfsberger across competitions, but could ply his trade abroad to take the next step in his career. While he could grab the ‘number 1′ spot at Molineux, the Celts’ offer must be more fascinating for him, considering Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League.
LUTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 09: Nikolas Polster of Austria kicks the ball upfield during the U21 international friendly match between England and Austria at Kenilworth Road on September 09, 2024 in Luton, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
Celtic, still in the hunt for a ‘domestic double’, are getting prepared for life after Martin O’Neill. Not only must they find his long-term successor, but also bolster the squad significantly following a couple of dreadful transfer windows. Kasper Schmeichel’s shoulder injury leaves them a man short between the sticks, and despite Viljami Sinisalo’s strong run, Polster would challenge and cover the Finnish custodian if a transfer takes place in due time.
What He Would Offer In Goal
The young keeper, who idolises Jan Oblak, is regarded for his shot-stopping attributes, positioning and authority inside the box. However, he needs to work on his positioning, along with the parrying technique, as he tends to parry shots back into dangerous areas rather than redirecting them to safety. Nevertheless, Polster has a very high ceiling, as he holds all the traits to become a top name in the coming days.
The Hoops have preferred an immediate short-term solution in goal by roping in renowned experienced figures. Schmeichel was a like-for-like replacement for Joe Hart, but the 39-year-old Dane has probably played his last game already for the Glasgow giants. His contract is set to expire by the end of this month, and the Bhoys should decide whether to offer him an extension, given the uncertainty over his return date. It remains to be seen whether the Celts change their strategy and opt for a younger alternative ahead of the upcoming campaign.
