Celtic’s pursuit of Hertha Berlin goalkeeper Tjark Ernst could yet be complicated by late interest from Borussia Monchengladbach, with the Bundesliga outfit reportedly entering the race for the highly-rated shot-stopper.
The Scottish champions have been credited with a move for the 23-year-old, who has also attracted attention from Feyenoord, now managed by former Ibrox boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Ernst is understood to have a £4 million release clause in his current deal and was absent from Hertha’s pre-season friendly at the weekend, although the German club maintained the decision had been scheduled in advance.
Celtic’s hopes of securing the goalkeeper may now depend on developments at Borussia Monchengladbach, who are preparing for the possible departure of first-choice keeper Moritz Nicolas.
The 28-year-old has emerged as a £12 million target for clubs in England and Spain, with his exit after more than a decade at Monchengladbach looking increasingly possible.
German reports claim Ernst has already been identified as a leading target to replace Nicolas should the transfer go through.
While Hertha would prefer to retain the services of their young goalkeeper, the club are believed to have accepted that he could leave during the current transfer window, leaving Celtic facing fresh competition to complete a deal.
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