Celtic have acquired two goalkeepers this summer, and it appears that John McGinn played a significant role in one of Brendan Rodgers’ new signings.
Recently, Celtic have focused on signing experienced goalkeepers.
Fraser Forster made a return in 2019, but Vasilis Barkas struggled significantly in Glasgow and was eventually sold by Ange Postecoglou.
The investment in Barkas didn’t pay off, so Celtic opted for a more reliable choice, bringing in Joe Hart on a free transfer.
Hart has now decided to retire, ending his long career.
Celtic have now turned to another seasoned goalkeeper to succeed Hart, acquiring Kasper Schmeichel on a free transfer. However, Gordon Dalziel remains doubtful about this move.
Schmeichel, who was Hart’s former Manchester City teammate, joins from Anderlecht and is expected to take on a mentoring role at Parkhead.
Celtic have also secured another goalkeeper, Finnish shot-stopper Viljami Sinisalo.
Sinisalo has made a permanent switch from Aston Villa to Celtic, where the club appears to be aiming to nurture him under the guidance of the experienced Kasper Schmeichel.
This transfer has been anticipated for some time.
Celtic showed interest in Sinisalo back in 2021 after his impressive loan spell at Ayr United, followed by his time with Burton Albion and Exeter City.
Now 22, Sinisalo has decided to move permanently and aspires to become Celtic’s first-choice goalkeeper in the future.
He has recently discussed his transfer and acknowledged the influence of one of his former Villa teammates.
John McGinn, a lifelong Celtic fan who once idolized Henrik Larsson, played a part in Viljami Sinisalo’s move to Celtic.
Sinisalo told the Daily Record that his previous experience living in Scotland with Ayr United made the transition easier. He also mentioned that McGinn encouraged him to seize the opportunity to join Celtic, offering him some confidential advice, though Sinisalo chose not to reveal the details.
Sinisalo expressed his appreciation for McGinn’s support, noting, “It definitely helps that I’ve lived there before. I spoke with him quite a bit. He said I should seize this chance because it’s a huge opportunity. He gave me some advice, which I’ll keep to myself! He’s a great guy, and I’m thankful for all his help both at Aston Villa and in settling me into life in Scotland. He’s a big personality—very funny, and he even manages to get everyone, including those who don’t speak English well, laughing and involved.”
Sinisalo shared his positive feelings about joining Celtic, saying, “Overall, he’s a really good person, which is something I’ve noticed is common among Scottish people. I spoke to many people before coming here, but you can really sense the significance of joining a big and prestigious club. It’s been amazing so far, and I’ve enjoyed every moment. I hope it continues this way.”
Although Sinisalo might spend most of this season on the bench, learning from Schmeichel will be a valuable experience for him.
The future looks promising for Sinisalo at Celtic, and if he ever needs guidance on handling the pressures of life at the club, McGinn will be there to offer support.