​Tjark Ernst was left out of Hertha BSC’s friendly with Lichtenberg at the last moment, with Celtic still in the race for the 23-year-old goalkeeper as clubs haggle over his €5 million release clause. The Celtic Star previously noted Ernst’s availability, and this latest development suggests that a move is edging closer. What makes the omission particularly telling is that Hertha manager Stefan Leitl had publicly expected Ernst to feature in the clash. To be left watching a 9-0 win from the stands, after being named in the plans, signals that the transfer machinery is in motion. According to TalkingPoints, the last-minute change of plan points to an imminent exit.
The same report clarifies that Feyenoord now appear to be the frontrunners, with Celtic still in contention alongside Borussia Mönchengladbach. Ernst reportedly declined Wolfsburg after days of talks last week, so the field has narrowed but has not closed. The negotiation detail is intriguing in itself. A €5 million release clause is a fixed figure, not merely a starting point for talks, yet multiple clubs are pushing back on it. That suggests either disputes over add-ons and structure or clubs testing Hertha’s willingness to enforce the clause as written.
Martin O’Neill has publicly stated that bringing in a goalkeeper is a priority this summer. Speaking to the media, he said: “We’re definitely looking for another goalkeeper. Whether it be a youngish fellow, around the same age as Sinisalo, or someone a bit older, we’re definitely looking at it. Because we’ve only got Sinisalo here at this minute and we’ve got Ross [Doohan].” With Kasper Schmeichel retired and Antti Sinisalo as the current incumbent, the need is real, and O’Neill isn’t masking it.
Ernst made two appearances for Germany’s Under-21 side last season and posted some of the best shot-stopping numbers in the German second tier, a profile that fits what a modern Celtic side building from the back would want. At €5 million, the fee is manageable and represents a structured investment in a young goalkeeper with proven second-tier credentials. There is also an outstanding ban carried over from last season to consider, which complicates the immediate picture for whichever club signs him. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting as part of the full context.
If Feyenoord moves decisively, Celtic may need to act quickly or pivot to other targets already circulating—Stefan Ortega remains an option, and Nikolas Polster is also being linked. The summer window is shifting, and O’Neill’s recruitment team will need to move rapidly to secure this deal if it is to be completed. The Hoops will be keen to get this one over the line, both for depth and for a future-facing investment between the posts.