The double-winning campaign may have ended in absolute euphoria at Hampden Park, but Celtic find themselves staring down a massive summer transition. Following the official announcement that Danish legend Kasper Schmeichel is retiring from professional football, the Hoops recruitment team has been working around the clock to find a worthy heir to the Parkhead gloves.
Now, a massive breakthrough has emerged on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Reports indicate that Celtic's primary, data-driven target is incredibly "keen" on making the switch to Glasgow, and his current club has slapped a surprisingly low, bargain-basement price tag on his head.
The man in question? Go Ahead Eagles' rising Belgian star, Jari De Busser.
The Market Opportunity: Why De Busser is the One
Replacing a character of Schmeichel’s immense stature and dressing-room leadership requires a keeper who is technically secure, physically imposing, and mentally prepared for the goldfish bowl of Glasgow.
Parkhead scouts have heavily monitored the Eredivisie market over the past six months, keeping a close eye on Go Ahead Eagles’ core.
The Contract Situation: The 26-year-old Belgian is rapidly entering the final 12 months of his contract in the Netherlands.
The Stance: Knowing that they risk losing him for nothing next year, Go Ahead Eagles are ready to cash in immediately. They have informed Celtic that a bid in the region of just £2.5 million will be enough to seal the deal.Player Desire: Crucially, De Busser has reportedly expressed immense excitement about the project, eager to test himself in European competition under the lights at Paradise.
Scout Report: Jari De Busser vs. Kasper Schmeichel
| Attribute | Kasper Schmeichel (Departing) | Jari De Busser (Target) |
| Age | 39 (Retired) | 26 (Entering Prime) |
| Height | 1.89 m | 1.90 m |
| Key Attribute | Elite communication, big-game aura | High-reflex shot-stopping, cross collection |
| Market Value | Free transfer | £2.5 Million Bargain |
A Shrewd Financial Masterstroke?
For a club of Celtic's financial muscle, landing a starting goalkeeper entering his peak years for £2.5 million represents an absolute steal. It allows the board to solve a critical positional crisis without entirely draining the summer war chest, leaving maximum funds available to pursue marquee targets across the frontline and midfield.
The Belgian's age profile is exactly what the recruitment team looks for—young enough to develop and potentially net a massive resale profit in the future, yet mature enough to handle the immense pressure of defending domestic trophies and competing in the newly formatted Champions League.
Pull the Trigger
Replacing Joe Hart with Kasper Schmeichel was a masterclass in short-term experience, but Schmeichel's retirement means Celtic must finally invest in the long-term future of their backline.
With Jari De Busser actively wanting the move and available at an undeniable bargain price, the board should look to finalize personal terms and get this deal over the line before rival European clubs catch wind of his availability.
