Celtic plot move for Manchester City treble winner in 2026 summer window | OneFootball

Manchester City could find themselves handing over one of their Treble-winning stars to Celtic without too much say in the matter in 2016, it has been reported.

Stefan Ortega’s future has been a recurring narrative over the last few months, with City preparing for another year of goalkeeping transition. Following Ederson’s move to Fenerbahçe and the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma as Pep Guardiola’s new No.1, uncertainty has only increased around the players behind the Italian international.

Ortega, who played a key role during Manchester City’s historic Treble-winning campaign and the following Premier League-winning season of 2023/24, has gradually slipped into fourth choice following the signings of Donnarumma, James Trafford, and Marcus Bettinelli.

Earlier reports revealed that Ortega is expected to leave on a free transfer in the summer of 2026 when his current contract expires, while James Trafford is now seen as the goalkeeper City most want to retain among their back-up choices behind their Italian star.

The German goalkeeper has featured in only a limited number of fixtures as part of the matchday squad this season and is seeking a new chapter as he approaches the end of his contract. With Trafford and Donnarumma firmly ahead in Guardiola’s plans, the chances of a long-term Etihad Stadium stay continue to shrink.

Now, according to the information of Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Celtic are plotting a move to sign out-of-favour Manchester City goalkeeper Ortega as he looks set to leave the Etihad Stadium on a free transfer next year.

A move to the Scottish Premier League giants would present Ortega with the opportunity to become a guaranteed first-choice goalkeeper again, something he has increasingly lacked at Manchester City.

The Scottish giants are already planning for the long term as they look to strengthen their squad for domestic dominance and sustained European competition, and a goalkeeper with Ortega’s experience and pedigree represents an attractive opportunity.

For Manchester City, the looming departure of Ortega only amplifies the importance of their internal decision to keep hold of James Trafford. As previously reported, Pep Guardiola is reluctant to sanction a Trafford exit in 2026 despite growing interest. The expectation from City’s part remains that Trafford will serve as Donnarumma’s deputy and potential successor.

Looking ahead, Celtic are likely to step up efforts as the 2026 window approaches, particularly if they fear competition from other clubs in England or Germany. City, meanwhile, will continue mapping out their goalkeeping department, with further investment or another internal promotion not being ruled out depending on Trafford’s situation.