Celtic Plot Summer Move For This In-demand German Ace: Why They Must Get The Deal Done | OneFootball

If a recent report from the German outlet Wolfsburger Allgemeine Zeitung is believed to be true, Celtic are keeping close tabs on Tjark Ernst ahead of a potential summer swoop. But they are not alone in the hunt, with Dutch giants Ajax and the 2.Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg also keen on snapping up the Hertha Berlin ace.

The 23-year-old shot-stopper, who represented Germany across various youth levels, progressed through TSG Niederdorfelden, DJK Arminia Bochum and VfL Bochum’s academy ranks. Despite making the matchday squad, he never grabbed senior minutes for the Undescendables. The youngster plied his trade at Hertha in the summer of 2022, and after a brief spell with the reserves, he cemented a regular role since The Old Lady’s relegation a year later.

Ernst, so far, has featured 97 times for Hertha across competitions, but must make the call as Wolfsburg awaits his decision on whether to stay in Germany or move abroad. While Ajax present a greater legacy, there he might have to feature as the understudy to Maarten Paes, who only joined them in February.

Why Celtic Must Step Up The Chase For Ernst

Celtic, on the other hand, are in the market following Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement and have shortlisted younger alternatives, including Nikolas Polster and Aleksander Bobek. They opted for experience between the sticks in the recent past, bringing the veteran Dane in as Joe Hart’s successor, but have now changed their strategy, according to the latest rumours.

BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 10: Noel Futkeu of SpVgg Greuther Furth scores his team’s first goal past Tjark Ernst of Hertha BSC during the 2. Bundesliga match between Hertha BSC and SpVgg Greuther Fürth at Olympiastadion on May 10, 2026 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Schmeichel’s injury was a blessing in disguise for Viljami Sinisalo, who was key to their title run-in in the decisive months. The Hoops also snapped up Ross Doohan from Aberdeen on a Bosman, but the Scotsman was not at all involved last season. He has been brought in as the third-choice, and the Celts are eyeing a new name to challenge and cover Sinisalo in the last line of defence.

Ernst is regarded for his aerial supremacy, close-range shot-stopping ability, and strong reflexes. His mental fortitude and concentration have already earned him profound senior experience in his career. He is a highly touted prospect with a growing ceiling, and Celtic must exhibit sheer ambition to make him leave his homeland.

The German, too, should consider their offer, as a Parkhead move would see him attain European experience rather than continuing in the second division. His valuation is well within the Bhoys’ spending limit, as Hertha might accept a minuscule fee, given he has entered the final year of his contract at Olympiastadion.