Celtic are looking to sign a former English goalkeeper: why he would be

According toSports.

Background

Gavin Bazunu is a young goalkeeper with a promising career, starting out in the Shamrock Rovers academy before moving to Manchester City. After a successful loan spell, he moved to Southampton, but faced challenges due to injuries and competition. A move to Celtic could provide him with a new opportunity to shine in the Scottish Premiership.

Why is this important?

Celtic are looking to strengthen their squad with a new goalkeeper, reflecting their desire to improve their performance in the Scottish Premiership. Gavin Bazunu, who has experience in the English Premier League, could be a valuable addition to the team, especially after the challenges he faced with Southampton. This deal may enhance the club's transfer strategies and help in the development of young players.

Key points

• Celtic are looking to sign a former English goalkeeper: why he would be.
• Celtic are seeking to sign goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu from Southampton, who has faced challenges due to injuries and competition. This move may signal a change in the Scottish club's transfer strategy.
• Celtic Identify This Former Premier League Goalkeeper As A Summer Target: Why He Could Be A Shrewd Signing - Yahoo Sport.

According to a recent report from The Daily Echo and also reported by The National, Celtic are examining the transfer market in search of a new goalkeeper and have included Gavin Bazunu among their list of options, along with Balazs Toth and Leo Kavalios. But Celtic are not the only ones in the race, with Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb also considering the possibility of signing the goalkeeper who played for Southampton.

Bazunu, 24, is a Republic of Ireland international and began his career at Shamrock Rovers' academy in his home country before getting the chance to play in the first team at the age of 16. He was quickly recruited by Manchester City, but he was loaned out to both Rochdale and Burmatooth in the English Premier League to get more playing time. Bazunu was Burmouth's player of the season, leading to a high-profile move to Southampton for £12m in 2022.

Despite being the starting goalkeeper, Southampton finished the season in last place, resulting in relegation to the Championship. Despite this, he was able to return to the Premier League quickly, but an Achilles injury in April 2024 kept him out of action for several months. By his return, he was third in the standings behind Aaron Ramsdale and Alex McCarthy. Southampton loaned him to Standard Liège in February 2025, but the Belgian club brought him back shortly after due to fresh health concerns.

Despite making 19 appearances for Southampton in the first half of last season, Bazunu lost his starting position to Daniel Peretz, who joined from Bayern Munich. He was loaned out to Stoke City in the Championship for the rest of the season, but suffered a groin injury which restricted him to just six appearances.

Why would signing Bazunu be a smart deal for Celtic? Alongside Peretz and Ramsdale, Southampton have signed George Long permanently following the expiration of McCarthy's contract. Bazunu, who is under contract until the summer of 2027, is expected to leave the club, and Southampton must accept a small fee rather than lose him on a free after a year.

Celtic have in the past preferred to sign experienced players to provide leadership and stability in the short term. Kasper Schmeichel was hired as a replacement for Joey Hart after the latter's retirement. However, Schmeichel's shoulder injury forced him to retire.

Rumors of Celtic's interest in the Irishman show a change in their transfer policy, with Bazunu seen as a rival to Sensalo rather than replacing him in goal. A move north of the border could be an opportunity for him to start over and return to his level of form after repeated injuries.

What's next?

Celtic are expected to continue evaluating their options in the transfer market over the summer. With interest from other clubs such as Dinamo Zagreb, Celtic may have to move quickly to secure Bazunu's services. If the deal goes through, the club could see a shift in its squad, boosting its chances of competing for silverware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Gavin Bazuno?

Gavin Bazunu is a 24-year-old former English goalkeeper who represents the Republic of Ireland internationally.

Where did Gavin Bazunu come from before Celtic?

Gavin Bazunu was a Southampton player before being considered for a move to Celtic.

Why are Celtic considering signing Gavin Bazunu?

Celtic are considering signing Gavin Bazunu as part of their search for a new goalkeeper, and consider him a smart signing.

What is the status of Gavin Bazunu's deal?

Celtic are considering the possibility of signing Gavin Bazunu, but a deal has not yet been confirmed.

What role will Gavin Bazunu have in the team if he moves to Celtic?

If Gavin Bazunu moves to Celtic, he is expected to be the team's starting goalkeeper.

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