Celtic Set Sights on Balazs Toth Deal as Updated Price Emerges

Celtic are continuing to monitor Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Balazs Toth as they consider their options for strengthening the position ahead of the January transfer window.

The Hungarian shot-stopper was a prominent target for the Hoops during the summer, but a move to Parkhead failed to materialise. However, his contract situation at Ewood Park could give Celtic another opportunity to secure his signature.

According to sources cited by Football Insider, Toth has continued to turn down offers of a new deal with Blackburn, leaving his long-term future uncertain.

With his current contract due to expire at the end of the season, the Championship club could be willing to sanction a January departure rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer.

Celtic are understood to remain interested in the 29-year-old and could potentially sign him for considerably less than his reported £4million summer valuation.

The Scottish champions have been searching for a reliable long-term solution between the posts, but have yet to settle on a permanent first choice.

Sam Johnstone and Viljami Sinisalo have both had opportunities to establish themselves as Celtic’s number one this season. Nevertheless, the possibility of bringing in another goalkeeper remains under consideration.

Balazs Toth open to Celtic move

Celtic are unlikely to be the only club monitoring Toth’s situation when the transfer window reopens.

The Blackburn goalkeeper attracted interest from several European sides ahead of the current campaign, and his contract position could make him an appealing option for clubs looking to strengthen without paying a substantial transfer fee.

Football Insider reported in August that Toth was receptive to the possibility of joining Celtic, with the prospect of playing European football understood to be an attraction.

The Hungarian has built a strong reputation in the English Championship and is reportedly keen to test himself at the highest possible level.

His desire to take the next step in his career, combined with the uncertainty surrounding his Blackburn contract, could create an opportunity for Celtic.

Blackburn, meanwhile, face a decision over whether to cash in during January or risk losing the goalkeeper without receiving a transfer fee at the end of the campaign.

Although Celtic have reportedly maintained their interest in recent weeks, competition from other clubs could complicate negotiations.

For Martin O’Neill, Toth could represent another option as Celtic continue their search for greater certainty in the goalkeeping department. Whether the club decides to make a formal move remains to be seen.

Celtic consider Joel van den Berg loan move

Celtic could also face decisions over the future of young midfielder Joel van den Berg during the January window.

Football Insider reported that the club would consider allowing the 19-year-old to leave on loan as he looks for regular senior football.

The Hoops signed Van den Berg from PSV Eindhoven during the summer for a reported £3.4million, but he is still waiting to make his first-team debut.

Celtic regard the midfielder as a prospect for the future and are keen to ensure that his development continues. A temporary move could provide him with the match experience he currently lacks at Parkhead.

However, any decision will depend on the club’s squad requirements and O’Neill’s assessment of his midfield options.

If the Celtic manager believes Van den Berg could be needed to provide cover during a demanding run of fixtures, a loan departure may be delayed or ruled out.

As January approaches, Celtic therefore have several important decisions to make, with Toth’s availability potentially offering an opportunity to strengthen one area while Van den Berg’s situation presents a separate question about the best pathway for a young player to progress.