Tjark Ernst Dropped From Hertha Friendly as Celtic Chase €5m Keeper | OneFootball

Ernst’s abrupt omission from a Hertha friendly signals that his exit from Berlin is moving fast – the question is whether we’ll be the ones to pull the trigger.

Tjark Ernst has been left out of Hertha BSC’s friendly against Lichtenberg at the last minute, with Celtic still in the running for the 23-year-old goalkeeper as clubs haggle over his €5 million release clause. According to a report via The Celtic Star’s earlier coverage of Ernst’s availability, Hertha were already open to a sale – and this latest development suggests that departure is now closer than ever.

The detail that makes the omission so telling is this: Hertha manager Stefan Leitl had publicly stated he expected Ernst to feature in the clash. When a goalkeeper who was named in the plan suddenly watches a 9-0 win from the stands, the transfer machinery is clearly moving. As reported by TalkingPoints, the last-minute change of plan indicates an exit could be imminent.

FEYENOORD LEAD – BUT CELTIC ARE STILL IN IT

Here’s the thing: the same report makes clear that Feyenoord now appear to be the frontrunners, with Celtic described as still in contention alongside Borussia Mönchengladbach. Ernst rejected Wolfsburg after days of talks last week, so the field has narrowed – but it hasn’t closed. The haggling detail is interesting in itself. A €5 million release clause is a written figure, not a negotiating opener, yet multiple clubs are reportedly pushing back on it. That suggests either a dispute over add-ons and structure, or clubs testing Hertha’s resolve to enforce it cleanly.

Martin O’Neill has confirmed publicly that a goalkeeper is a priority this summer. Speaking to the media, O’Neill said: “We’re definitely looking for another goalkeeper. Whether it be a youngish fellow, same age as Sinisalo, or somebody a bit older, we’re definitely looking at it. Because we’ve only got Sinisalo here at this minute and we’ve got Ross [Doohan].” With Kasper Schmeichel retired and Antti Sinisalo as the current incumbent, the need is real and O’Neill isn’t dressing it up.

THE WIDER PICTURE

Ernst made two appearances for Germany’s Under-21 side last season and has put up some of the best shot-stopping numbers in the German second tier – the profile fits what a modern Celtic side building from the back ought to want. At €5 million, the fee is manageable and represents a structured investment in a young goalkeeper with proven second-tier credentials.

There is also an unserved ban carried over from last season to factor in, which complicates the immediate picture for whichever club signs him. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting as part of the full picture.

If Feyenoord move decisively, we may need to act quickly or pivot to the other names circling – Stefan Ortega is still reportedly an option, and Nikolas Polster is also being linked. The window is moving. Let’s see if O’Neill’s recruitment team can get this one over the line. Mon The Hoops.