Kasper Schmeichel has completed a move for Celtic, while the Leicester City legend has been reunited with Brendan Rodgers

Celtic have confirmed the signing of Kasper Schmeichel as the Denmark No.1 takes over for the retired Joe Hart.

The Hoops have been searching for a new shotstopper after the legendary Hart decided to hang up his gloves. Now Brendan Rodgers has finally got his wish after reuniting with his former Leicester City captain Schmeichel. The Scottish champions have scoured the globe for a new first-choice goalkeeper, with £8million Sparta Prague star Peter Vindahl Jensen among their top targets.

But Rodgers has opted for a safe pair of hands in the highly experienced Schmeichel, who has played in all four of Denmark’s Euro 2024 matches. The 105-times capped star was a free agent after spending a year in Belgium with Anderlecht. Schmeichel – who turns 38 in November – was part of Leicester City’s fairytale Premier League-winning side.

He also lifted the FA Cup and Community Shield during Rodgers’ reign at the Foxes and previously credited the Northern Irishman with being among the most influential figures of his career. Speaking for the first time after being officially announced as a Celtic player, Schmeichel said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Celtic and I can’t wait to get started.

“Celtic is one of the real football clubs in the world, a huge name and a place of real passion and success. Celtic is what football is all about. I know Brendan very well too. He is a top manager and someone I I can’t wait for you to work again.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the guys in America and getting our work started and then of course meeting our fans who bring so much to Celtic. I will do everything I can to keep Celtic on top and bring these brilliant supporters more and more success.”

Rodgers added: “I’m really excited to bring Kasper to Celtic. He is a real quality goalkeeper and someone with the ability and personality to be great for us.

“He’s a guy I trust and someone who knows how to win. He lives for football and comes to a club where he will feel the same passion he has for the game. I know he will feel right at home at Celtic and we look forward to working with him as we all aim for more success.”

Schmeichel will work closely with fellow new Bhoy Viljami Sinisalo, who completed a £1million switch from Aston Villa. The 22-year-old Finland international was brought in as a substitute and will be mentored by Schmeichel to eventually follow him between the sticks.