No Celtic move for Forster as keeper opts to stay at Saints

Fraser Forster will not be signing for Celtic this summer after the goalkeeper decided to remain at Southampton.

The goalkeeper, who excelled during his loan spell at Parkhead last season, looked set to rejoin the champions on a further year-long loan deal with Celtic having the option to buy.

Following discussions with the Saints hierarchy, Forster has opted to stay at the Saints.

Forster became a favourite with Celtic fans during his first spell at the club, when he won three league titles and two Scottish Cups following a move from Newcastle.

Last season’s return on loan strengthened his bond with the club after he played an important role in their success and was keen on a permanent transfer.

This won’t happen now and he will compete with Alex McCarthy and Angus Gunn to be Ralph Hasenhüttl’s first choice at St Mary’s.

The news comes after Norwegian attacker Mohamed Elyounoussi agreed a new one-year loan from Southampton.

Celtic will now look elsewhere for a goalkeeper as Neil Lennon strengthens his squad for their bid to win a tenth consecutive title.

Scott Bain remains on the books at Parkhead but Craig Gordon left the club at the end of his contract and signed for Hearts earlier this week.

Joe Hart and David Marshall have both been linked but Celtic have a number of options and are likely to move quickly to make a signing early in pre-season training.