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Premier League duo set to battle with Celtic for Southampton goalkeeper: report

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The 24-year-old shot-stopper is set to be in high demand this summer

St Mary's Stadium, home of Southampton Football Club.
St Mary's Stadium, home of Southampton Football Club. (Image credit: Getty Images)

Southampton are preparing to welcome plenty of interest for goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.

The 34-year-old is wanted by two Premier League clubs as well as Scottish giants Celtic this summer.

McCarthy has made just seven appearances for the Saints so far this season but could yet help Russell Martin's side back to the top flight via the Championship play-offs later this month.

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Celtic are said to be leading the interest according to the Daily Mail, given goalkeeper Joe Hart is set to retire at the end of the season.

Newcastle United and Liverpool however are also interested in the veteran goalkeeper as a back-up goalkeeper, given his English status.

Liverpool's Caoimhin Kelleher is looking to play regular first-team football following his impressive spell as Alisson's understudy this season.

Newcastle want to bring in Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale but understand any deal to bring in the England international could prove costly.

Alex McCarthy in action for Southampton.

Alex McCarthy in action for Southampton.

McCarthy has Premier League experience with Reading, QPR, Crystal Palace and Southampton but is still attracted by the challenge in Scotland with Celtic, given they will play European football next season.

The Southampton shot-stopper was in fine form at the weekend as his side drew 0-0 with West Brom in the first leg of their Championship play-off semi-final.

He twice denied Albion forward Grady Diangana with manager Martin praising McCarthy for his performance at the Hawthorns.

"He was massive today, (he has great with) long throws and the way he came and dealt with things," began Martin. "The last two weeks I’ve loved the way we’ve defended.

"I just don't think anything phases him. He has that laid-back mentality but he really backs himself as a goalkeeper. He has been fantastic."

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Matthew Holt
Matthew Holt

Matthew Holt writes freelance for FourFourTwo, amongst others, and boasts previous experience at GOAL and SPORTBible. He now works with us alongside his time at Manchester United and Reach PLC, aiding with online content for the website. Career highs include working at the FA Cup final, as well as scoring at Old Trafford in front of the Stretford End. A long-term sufferer of his beloved Scunthorpe United, he is often seen on the padel court, as well as occasionally as a six-a-side call-up.