Horatiu Moldovan Celtic transfer 'offer' revealed as Romanian keeper closes in on Atletico Madrid move

Celtic are one of a number of clubs reportedly beaten to the signature of Romanian international goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan by Spanish giants Atletico Madrid.

The 26-year-old is on the brink of joining the La Liga side, who Celtic faced in the Champions League this season, and admitted he had discussions with other clubs but that he couldn’t turn down Diego Simeone’s side. The goalkeeping position at Parkhead is one that many feel Brendan Rodgers will look to with current No. 1 Joe Hart set to turn 37 later this year.

And a report in Romania has named Celtic as one of the clubs who were in for Moldovan. They say: “Aged 26, Horatiu Moldovan recently had several transfer offers from clubs such as FC Basel, Ludogorets Razgrad, Celtic, Betis Sevilla and Atletico Madrid. The goalkeeper has a termination clause in the contract with FC Rapid worth 800,000 euros, which will be paid by Atletico Madrid after the medical visit. The Spanish group offered him a contract valid for four and a half seasons, with an annual salary of 800,000 euros.”

The player himself spoke to the media as he departed from Bucharest airport, saying: "There were a lot of discussions, but when Atletico Madrid appeared… you can't refuse Atletico Madrid. They were the most determined ones there. Now I just have to go through the medical visit. With the coach (Diego Simeone) I haven't had time to talk. It will definitely be the biggest competition I've had so far. Jan Oblak is probably the best goalkeeper in the world.

“I'm very happy and confident in what's to come. It's a dream come true for me, but I'm not taking chances, I still have a long way to go and the medical visit. It is an example for all children who play football, to have unconditional trust