Celtic transfer 'target' with outstanding leadership available for free as ex-Chelsea + Everton man hunts club

Asmir Begovic has become a free agent amid links to Celtic this summer.

The goalkeeper can count Stoke City, Everton, Chelsea, AC Milan and others amongst his former clubs. Another can now be added in QPR, as the Championship club confirm he is moving on after one season at Loftus Road.

Begovic played a key role as the club retained its second tier status, making 46 appearances in all competitions for the club. CEO Christian Nourry said: “On behalf of the wider football club I want to offer my deep thanks to Asmir for all of his contributions.

“His outstanding leadership qualities helped the group immeasurably when times were toughest. I have immense respect for Asmir the man and the professional, and wish him nothing but the best for his future endeavours.”

Alongside the likes of Newcastle United shot-stopper Martin Dubravka, Begovic is linked with replacing Joe Hart at Celtic this summer, after the former England international retired. When asked directly about his plans for next season and with a mention of links to Celtic, the former Everton and Chelsea keeper told talkSPORT earlier this month: “I am currently looking at options.

“Talking to obviously QPR and see what happens there, see what happens in the next few weeks, it is still pretty early in the transfer window. Nothing has been decided yet. I am keeping myself fit. I really enjoyed last year, the fact that I played so many games.

“In the second half of the season, for us, the team became together really well. Let’s see if we can keep this group of players together, have another run at it next year, see what else is out there and take it from there.”