Celtic’s goalkeeping situation has become an uncomfortable issue for Martin O’Neill, with inconsistent selection adding pressure during a demanding 2026/27 campaign. The Scottish side have kept just one clean sheet across their last seven matches in all competitions, highlighting concerns about defensive stability as they balance domestic commitments with European football.
Viljami Sinisalo and Sam Johnstone have shared opportunities between the posts, but neither has enjoyed a settled run as the undisputed first choice. Sinisalo offers Celtic a permanent option, with his contract reportedly running until June 2029, while Johnstone arrived from Wolverhampton Wanderers on loan during the summer.
The 33-year-old Englishman brought considerable experience, having played in the Premier League and represented England internationally. Celtic expected him to compete for the starting role, yet he has started only three of the club’s 10 matches since his arrival. O’Neill recently preferred Sinisalo before recalling Johnstone for the Europa League meeting with Celta Vigo, which Celtic lost 2-1.
That rotation has raised questions about the club’s recruitment strategy. A goalkeeper needs regular starts to build an understanding with his centre-backs, organise the defensive line and develop confidence under pressure. Constant changes can disrupt those relationships, particularly when Celtic already face difficulties keeping opponents from creating clear chances.
Former Aberdeen and Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness has now questioned the club’s approach. Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, he described the situation as a “half decision” and argued that Celtic must either commit to Johnstone or resolve his position before January.
Wyness believes Celtic could terminate the loan and return the goalkeeper to Wolves if O’Neill decides against making him the club’s permanent first choice. Such a move would depend on the terms of the loan agreement and the clubs reaching an acceptable arrangement.
Should Celtic end Johnstone’s loan and pursue Balazs Toth?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – SEPTEMBER 13: Sam Johnstone of Celtic is seen during the Rangers v Celtic – Premier Sports Cup match at Ibrox Stadium on September 13, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
The same outlet has reported that Celtic continue to monitor Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Balazs Toth, whose contract situation could create an opportunity in January. The Hungarian international has reportedly rejected extension offers, and Blackburn may consider a reduced fee below £4 million rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer. That price could appeal to Celtic, although the club must establish whether Toth offers a clear improvement over Sinisalo before committing transfer funds.
Celtic should settle the hierarchy first. If O’Neill believes Sinisalo can handle the starting role, retaining Johnstone as an expensive temporary alternative makes little sense unless injuries or performances justify the arrangement. However, replacing him with Toth simply because Blackburn might accept less than £4 million would repeat the same recruitment mistake.
The board must consider the sporting director’s recruitment priorities, wage structure and long-term succession planning before approving another goalkeeper deal. Celtic need a clear first choice, dependable cover and a defensive unit that trusts the player behind it. Without that clarity, another signing risks adding expense while leaving the original problem unresolved.