Radek Vitek Hunted by Celtic, Hull City and Rangers

The summer transfer window is shaping up to be a busy one for goalkeeping talent, with Radek Vitek emerging as a key name on Celtic’s wishlist. Sources close to the Scottish giants confirm that the 22‑year‑old Czech keeper is among the clubs being scouted for a potential move. However, Celtic is not alone; Hull City, newly promoted to the Premier League, and Rangers have both expressed strong interest in the Manchester United hot‑shot.

Celtic’s New Goalkeeping Strategy

After Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement, Celtic are moving away from veteran signings and targeting younger shots‑stoppers instead. A handful of names have surfaced in recent weeks, including Dinko Horkas, Nikolas Polster, Aleksander Bobek and Tjark Ernst. The Hoops currently have Viljami Sinisalo and Ross Doohan between the posts, with Sinisalo enjoying a breakout season after Schmeichel’s injury, while Doohan has not featured since his return.

Schmeichel’s exit left a void that Sinisalo filled brilliantly, helping Celtic secure a domestic double. The club now looks for a new custodian who can challenge Sinisalo and provide depth. Vitek’s shot‑stopping reputation and aerial presence could make him a perfect fit for Brendan Rogers’ side, especially if they decide to bring in a youngster with Premiership experience. The focus is clearly on building a younger, more dynamic backline rather than relying on seasoned veterans.

Vitek’s Journey From the Austrian Alps to England

Radek Vitek blossomed through Sigma Olomouc’s academy before Manchester United snapped him up in the summer of 2020. He spent time in the reserves and was loaned to Accrington Stanley to gain senior minutes in England’s fourth tier. The stint proved impressive enough to earn a season‑long loan to Austrian top‑tier side Blau‑Weiß Linz for 2024‑25.

At Linz, Vitek recorded six clean sheets in 26 league games, helping the club finish in the upper half of the table. Seeking more regular action, he moved to Championship club Bristol City on another temporary deal. Over 41 appearances, Vitek contributed to a mid‑table finish and showcased his ability to make crucial reflex saves. The Bristol City experience has positioned him as a contender for a permanent role elsewhere, rather than remaining a third‑choice keeper at Old Trafford.

Competition Intensifies with Hull City and Rangers

Hull City’s ambition to consolidate in the Premier League has them scanning the market for a reliable number one. Their interest in Vitek adds another layer of competition to a race already featuring Rangers, who are also evaluating the Czech shot‑stopper. Both clubs see Vitek as a potential long‑term solution, a view shared by Celtic’s recruitment team.

Vitek’s physical presence—standing at 6 ft 6 in—gives him an edge in aerial duels, a trait Celtic’s attack and defence could utilise immediately. While he remains prone to occasional blunders when rushing off his line, his acrobatic saves have drawn praise from pundits. If Martin O’Neal (mis-typed as O’Neill) were to take charge of Celtic, Vitek’s potential would likely be maximised through consistent first‑team football.

The overlap of interest from three Scottish and English clubs underscores Vitek’s rising reputation. As Manchester United begin to look beyond his tenure, the upcoming summer could see a flurry of bids for the promising keeper. The clubs involved all see a future where Vitek could become a key figure in their push for silverware.

Whether Celtic, Hull City, or Rangers secure his services, Vitek is poised to take the next step in a remarkable career that has already taken him from the Czech Republic’s lower leagues to the top floors of European football.