Celtic are closely monitoring RKC Waalwijk’s seasoned goalkeeper, Etienne Vaessen, according to recent reports emerging from the Netherlands.
With Joe Hart, Celtic’s current number one, set to retire at the season’s end, the quest for a worthy successor has led the Hoops’ recruitment team to consider Vaessen, whose contract expires this summer.
At 28, Vaessen has established himself as a reliable presence between the posts for Waalwijk. His dedication to Waalwijk is noteworthy, having spent his entire senior career with the club and racking up over 200 appearances—a testament to his consistency and loyalty.
However, Celtic’s interest in the 6ft2in shot-stopper is not unchallenged. Reports from Brabants Dagblad suggest that PSV Eindhoven is also in the fray, eyeing Vaessen as a potential addition to their squad. This burgeoning interest from multiple clubs underscores the goalkeeper’s rising stock and the competitive market for his services as a free agent.
The departure of Joe Hart, aged 36, marks the end of an era for Celtic, necessitating a thoughtful selection process for his replacement. Hart’s announcement last month triggered the club’s search for a new number one, with the team currently relying on Scott Bain and Benji Siegrist as their primary goalkeeping options.
With Vaessen’s contract situation making him an attractive prospect, the club’s pursuit of the Dutchman could signal their intent to maintain high standards and ambition, even in the face of key departures.
