Hungary's number one goalkeeper could join a Champions League contender in Scotland

Scottish sources have confirmed reports that Balázs Tóth, the first-choice goalkeeper of the Hungarian national team, is very close to joining Scottish record champions Celtic.

Looking for Schmeichel's successor

The Glasgow club, chasing a place in the Champions League league phase, are working hard to replace Danish veteran Kasper Schmeichel, who retired at the end of last season. According to the Scottish press only minor formalities remain, and the transfer of the Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper could be confirmed next week.

It had already been suggested that the make-up of experienced coach Martin O'Neill's staff could influence the futures of Hungarian players. While Milán Vitális eventually moved to Greece, Tóth's case became increasingly concrete, even if the clubs spent weeks negotiating the fee.

Tracked for months

Sources say Celtic goalkeeping coach Stevie Wood identified Tóth months ago. The seven-times capped Hungarian fits the profile the club want: he already has experience in British football and at international level, and at his age he could be a solution in the position for years.

Tóth previously played for Puskás Akadémia and Csákvár before Blackburn paid Fehérvár around €1.2 million for him two years ago. He has made 44 appearances in England, most recently in a League Cup tie against Burton Albion. Several Premier League clubs, including Everton and Bournemouth, were linked with him in the spring.

Still a Blackburn goalkeeper for now

Reports suggest Tóth is still likely to start in the Championship opener at Wolverhampton Wanderers, as manager Tony Mowbray has indicated he will continue to use him as first choice until instructed otherwise. Celtic, meanwhile, play in the Champions League play-off round next week against LASK Linz and are guaranteed at least a place in the Europa League league phase - so European football awaits Tóth either way.