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Paul Robinson has backed Australia goalkeeper Mat Ryan to be a ‘great signing’ for Celtic amid heavy links with the shot-stopper.
The 29-year-old is expected to leave current club Brighton with the goalkeeper entering the final year of his current deal.
His spot in Graham Potter’s side was usurped by young Spanish ‘keeper Robert Sanchez, whose club form saw him rewarded with a spot in Spain’s Euro 2020 squad.
Consequentially, Ryan was shipped out on loan to Arsenal for the second half of the 2020/21 season with Ryan playing deputy to Bernd Leno.
However, Celtic are said to be keen on bringing Ryan to Paradise and will offer him the no. 1 jersey in an assurance over gametime.
That is believed by Football Insider to be a crucial differential in the race to beat Arsenal to his signature, with the Gunners keen on retaining his services.
Ange Postecoglou is believed to be a personal admirer of the shot-stopper, having worked closely with Ryan during his spell in charge of the Australia men’s national team.
Former Spurs and England no. 1 Robinson talked up the potential move:
“I’d never thought about that but it would be the perfect fit”, said Robinson as he spoke to Football Insider.
“Fraser Forster went up there and did a great job but they have struggled in that department since he’s left.
“Mat Ryan was unlucky to lose his place at Brighton in my eyes. I think he still has a lot to give and I think he showed that in his handful of appearances at Arsenal last season.
“In my opinion, he is a top class goalkeeper. He would be a great signing for Celtic given his age, experience and ability. He would be a very stable presence between the sticks for them. I think he’s a great option for them.”
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Valued in the region of just £3-5 million, Postecoglou has a potential steal on his hands considering the experience in the Premier League that Ryan has.
Moreover, offering Ryan the limelight at Parkhead is a unique factor that gives Ryan precisely what he has been starved of both at Brighton and Arsenal.
That could place Celtic in the driving seat for an acquisition.
