Celtic's deadline day pursuit of 6ft 4in shot-stopper hinges one key outside factor

As reported by The Daily Record, Celtic are interested in signing Emiliano Martinez before the January transfer window shuts but face an uphill battle to secure his signature.

What’s the story?

Adding a goalkeeper to the Celtic first-team squad is a massive priority for Brendan Rodgers after Craig Gordon suffered an injury against Hibs on Saturday that will keep him out for three months.

One option the Hoops are pursuing is Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

The Daily Record report that Celtic want to bring him to Glasgow but that La Liga side Getafe, who currently have the player on loan, could block the move.

The paper say that they’ll only let Martinez leave if they can keep hold of shot-stopper Vicente Guaita until the summer, who has signed a pre-contract with Crystal Palace but could make his move this January.

Can the Hoops get this complicated deal over the line on deadline day?

Would he be a good addition?

Emiliano Martinez does have limited first team experience but that isn’t uncommon for goalkeepers in their mid-twenties, especially at elite clubs like Arsenal.

He isn’t completely devoid of action though, making 56 first team appearances for six clubs, 13 of which have been at Arsenal.

Two of those appearances at the Gunners were in the UEFA Champions League where he helped keep a clean sheet against Borussia Dortmund and win against Anderlecht. Clearly then he wouldn’t be overwhelmed by European football in the second half of this season at Celtic.

At 6ft 4in tall, he has the stature to make an impression at Celtic and his football education has certainly been sound enough for Scottish Premiership action.

As last-minute deals go, this could prove to be an excellent one.

from FootballFanCast.com http://ift.tt/2npDUcH