Celtic have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Sam Johnstone on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, strengthening their squad as the Scottish transfer window approaches its closing stages. The former England international, 33, will provide competition for Finland goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo. Celtic are understood to be covering a significant portion of Johnstone’s wages, although the precise split has not been officially disclosed.
Johnstone’s arrival gives Celtic an experienced option in goal as Martin O’Neill’s side pursue domestic success and prepare for the demands of European competition. However, describing him as a “world-class” goalkeeper or stating that he has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable shot-stoppers would be subjective and is not necessary to report the confirmed transfer. Johnstone made 17 appearances for Wolves last season before leaving on loan.[sportsmole]
Celtic’s transfer activity extends beyond the goalkeeping position. The club have made a bid for Feyenoord right-back Jordan Lotomba, who has one year remaining on his contract. Celtic are also close to an agreement for Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis and have agreed a season-long loan for 18-year-old Chelsea striker Shim Mheuka. The club are additionally working on a loan deal for Chelsea left-back Landon Emenalo. These moves remain at different stages and should not all be described as completed signings.
Celtic have also added Parma midfielder Oliver Sørensen on an initial season-long loan with an option to buy. The club’s recent business has included significant changes to the squad, with Reo Hatate transferred to Burnley and Johnny Kenny moving to Preston North End.
The Scottish Premiership market remains active, but several claims about rival clubs require qualification. Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin has attracted reported interest from Turkey and the Saudi Pro League, while Thelo Aasgaard has been linked with Norwegian clubs. These are reports of interest rather than confirmed transfer agreements.
Wolves have also been active, although the reported deadline-day arrivals of Adam Armstrong and Ángel Gomes were not sufficiently confirmed by the strongest sources reviewed. Similarly, Crystal Palace’s reported £48 million signing of Jørgen Strand Larsen from Wolves should not be presented as completed without official confirmation. The reliable deadline-day reports reviewed instead focused on confirmed or developing deals involving other clubs.
Dundee’s reported pursuit of Swansea City striker Bobby Wales should likewise be described as a developing negotiation rather than a completed move. Scotland’s window remained open until 5:00 PM BST on 3 September, leaving Celtic and their rivals additional time to complete business.
