Celtic to 'miss out' on in-demand target as summer transfer nears completion

(Image: Shutterstock)

Celtic look set to miss out on top goalkeeper target Jari De Busser after he opted to move to AZ Alkmaar.

The Scottish champions had scouted the Go Ahead Eagles shotstopper as they looked for a replacement for Kasper Schmeichel.

The Belgian keeper was valued at £2.5 million, and Celtic were in the hunt, along with Club Brugge, to land the 26-year-old former Lommel ace.

But he has reportedly opted to stay in the Netherlands and move to AZ Alkmaar instead for family reasons.

---

Read more

• How Martin O'Neill will shape Celtic in his own image with tactics and transfers

• Fourth Premier League side 'joins race' for Celtic's Arne Engels as interest heats up

• Ex-Celtic star names three players who are 'vital' in dressing room

---

The clubs have agreed the fee and De Busser will snub Celtic and other interested parties to stay in the Eredivisie.

Last month, the in-demand player spoke of his keenness to move on from Go Ahead Eagles. He told Dutch media, "The plan is for me to take the next step.

"I’ve said this before, and it’s also being discussed with the club. They’re aware of the situation, and we’ve discussed it for this season.

"But anyway, a club has to come along first.”