Celtic Consider January Exit as Keeper Should They Sign Toth Instead

Celtic are weighing a January exit for their 33‑year‑old English keeper Sam Johnstone and are eyeing Blackburn Rovers’ Hungarian international Balazs Toth, who could be secured for less than £4 million if his contract is not renewed. The move comes as Celtic struggle to keep clean sheets and juggle domestic and European fixtures.

Goalkeeping instability plagues Celtic

The Scottish side’s goalkeeping situation has become an uncomfortable issue for Martin O’Neill, with inconsistent selection adding pressure during a demanding 2026/27 campaign. Celtic have kept just one clean sheet across their last seven matches in all competitions, highlighting defensive concerns as they balance domestic commitments with European football.

Viljami Sinisalo and Sam Johnstone have shared opportunities between the posts, yet neither has enjoyed a settled run as the undisputed first choice. Sinisalo’s contract runs until June 2029, offering a permanent option, while Johnstone arrived on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer.

Johnstone, the 33‑year‑old former Premier League and England international, has started only three of Celtic’s ten matches since his arrival. O’Neill recently preferred Sinisalo before recalling Johnstone for the Europa League meeting with Celta Vigo, which Celtic lost 2‑1, prompting questions about the club’s recruitment strategy.

A goalkeeper needs regular starts to build an understanding with centre‑backs, organise the defensive line and develop confidence under pressure. Constant changes can disrupt those relationships, particularly when Celtic already face difficulties keeping opponents from creating clear chances.

Former Aberdeen and Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness described the situation on the Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast as a “half decision”, arguing that Celtic must either commit to Johnstone or resolve his position before January. He suggested the loan could be terminated, returning the keeper to Wolves if O’Neill decides against a permanent deal.

Balazs Toth emerges as January target

Celtic continue to monitor Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Balazs Toth, whose contract situation could create an opportunity in January. The Hungarian international has rejected extension offers, and Blackburn may consider a reduced fee below £4 million rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer.

While that price could appeal to Celtic, the board must assess whether Toth offers a clear improvement over Sinisalo before committing funds. Replacing Johnstone with Toth simply because Blackburn might accept a lower fee would repeat the same recruitment mistake, adding expense without solving the underlying lack of a settled first‑choice keeper.