“Celtic to lose 5 key players?” – Celtic announces 5 key players whose contract will expire next year, as Celtic risks 5 players’ EXIT in 2025.

As Celtic continues to assert its dominance in Scottish football, the club is focusing on contract renewals for key players. One of the most notable negotiations is with Alistair Johnston, the right-back who has been a standout performer for the club. Manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly close to securing a new deal for Johnston, but other players are still waiting for clarity on their future with the team. With five Celtic players’ contracts set to expire in 2025, the club faces important decisions regarding its squad. Let’s take a closer look at the key players whose deals are approaching their end.

Alistair Johnston’s Contract Talks

Alistair Johnston, one of Celtic’s most consistent performers, has been a mainstay in the starting lineup since his arrival under Ange Postecoglou. The Canadian right-back has impressed Brendan Rodgers as well, and the club is keen to reward him for his contributions. Johnston is still on the same contract he signed when he first joined, but Celtic is looking to align his salary with that of the top earners at the club, such as Kyogo and Reo Hatate, who recently secured new deals.

Johnston’s performances have made him an integral part of Rodgers’ plans, and securing his long-term future would be a significant boost for Celtic. His ability to balance defensive duties with offensive support has made him one of the most reliable players in the squad. The club is hopeful that the new deal will reflect his growing importance and ensure his continued presence at Celtic Park.

Greg Taylor: Waiting for His Turn

While Alistair Johnston’s new contract seems imminent, things are more uncertain for left-back Greg Taylor. The 26-year-old has been a solid performer for Celtic, earning praise for his work under both Postecoglou and Rodgers. Taylor’s current deal expires in the summer of 2025, but there have been no substantial talks about a contract extension so far.

Taylor was a player of the year candidate just two seasons ago, and although his form hasn’t dipped significantly, the club has yet to engage in concrete negotiations. Taylor is currently the first-choice left-back, with new loanee Alex Valle still untested. Given his value to the team, many expect that Celtic will eventually offer him new terms, but for now, Taylor remains in limbo.

James Forrest: The Veteran’s Future

James Forrest is a club legend, having spent his entire career at Celtic. Now 33 years old, Forrest has remained a key figure in the squad despite his age. Brendan Rodgers is reportedly a big fan of the winger, and there is a possibility that the club will offer him a final contract to see out his career in Glasgow.

Forrest’s experience and leadership are invaluable to the team, even if he no longer plays as regularly as he once did. He has been with the club through multiple title-winning campaigns and continues to provide depth in the attacking department. While his contract is also set to expire in 2025, it wouldn’t be surprising if Celtic extends his stay to allow him to retire as a one-club man.

Kasper Schmeichel: The Veteran Goalkeeper’s Impressive Start

Kasper Schmeichel arrived at Celtic as a 37-year-old veteran goalkeeper, and despite initial doubts about his age, he has made an immediate impact. Schmeichel’s performances have been solid, and fans are already clamoring for the club to extend his contract. Goalkeepers tend to have longer careers than outfield players, and Schmeichel’s fitness and form suggest that he could still be a valuable asset beyond 2025.

Schmeichel’s leadership and experience between the posts have brought stability to Celtic’s defense, and his presence has been a reassuring one for Rodgers. If he continues to perform at a high level, a contract extension could be on the horizon, allowing him to further solidify his legacy at the club.

Liam Shaw: A Player Likely to Depart

Unlike some of his teammates, Liam Shaw’s future at Celtic appears to be uncertain. Shaw has struggled to break into the first team since joining the club and has been sent out on multiple loan spells to gain experience. However, his lack of opportunities at Celtic suggests that he may have played his last game for the club.

Shaw’s contract expires in 2025, but with no indication that he will be offered a new deal, it seems likely that he will seek regular game time elsewhere. A move away from Celtic could be beneficial for Shaw, allowing him to establish himself at another club and play more regularly.

James McCarthy: The Forgotten Man

James McCarthy’s situation at Celtic is one of the most mysterious. Despite speculation that he may have already been quietly released from the club, McCarthy’s contract technically runs until 2025. However, the Irishman has not been seen in training for a long time, and his name has been removed from the club’s official website.

There has been no official statement from Celtic regarding McCarthy’s status, but all signs point to him being on his way out. McCarthy’s time at Celtic has been marred by injuries and lack of form, and it’s unlikely that he will feature again for the club. Fans and analysts alike are left waiting for confirmation from the club regarding his future.

Conclusion

Celtic is at a crucial juncture in terms of player contracts, with several key decisions to be made before the 2025 deadline. While players like Alistair Johnston are expected to be rewarded for their strong performances, others like Greg Taylor and James Forrest remain in limbo. The club must balance the need to retain experience and leadership with the desire to bring in new talent and continue competing at the highest level.

For now, fans will watch closely as Celtic’s management navigates these negotiations. The outcome of these contract talks will shape the squad for years to come, and with key players like Johnston and Taylor potentially securing their futures, the club is aiming to build a team capable of maintaining its dominance in Scottish football. At the same time, decisions regarding veterans like Schmeichel, Forrest, and McCarthy will influence the club’s balance between experience and fresh talent.

Ultimately, Celtic’s ability to manage these contracts will play a pivotal role in the club’s ongoing success and their quest for both domestic and European glory.