“Money always talks” – Pundit reacts as Celtic eye up Ipswich Town man

Ipswich Town’s goalkeeper, Vaclav Hladky, has been in the spotlight due to his outstanding form this season, attracting interest from Scottish giants Celtic. Despite the allure of playing for a club like Celtic, former England international Carlton Palmer believes that Hladky should stay at Portman Road for the potential Premier League success with Ipswich.

Ipswich Town has been a surprise package in the Championship, currently sitting in second position after a strong League One finish in the previous season. Hladky, signed in 2021, initially lost his starting position to Christian Walton but seized the opportunity when Walton suffered an injury in pre-season. Playing in all 26 Championship matches this season, Hladky has kept nine clean sheets, establishing himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the division.

Reports from his native Czech Republic suggest that Celtic is interested in bringing Hladky back to Scotland, where he previously played for St. Mirren. However, Carlton Palmer argues that Hladky should prioritize staying at Ipswich to contribute to the team’s promotion to the Premier League.

Palmer acknowledges that multiple Ipswich players, including Hladky, may attract interest from other clubs due to their success. However, he emphasizes the significance of Ipswich potentially achieving back-to-back promotions, which would solidify their place in the club’s history. Palmer highlights the financial benefits for players who stay with Ipswich, even if they sign new contracts or attract interest as free agents.

While acknowledging that money plays a role in players’ decisions, Palmer believes that achieving back-to-back promotions to the Premier League is a significant incentive. He expresses concern about players potentially signing pre-contract agreements with other clubs in January, such as the reported interest from Celtic in Hladky.

The article suggests that losing Hladky to Celtic wouldn’t be the end of the world for Ipswich, as the goalkeeper has shown his talents in Scotland before. It speculates that Hladky might consider the competition at Celtic, especially with Joe Hart in the squad. Additionally, there is a mention of the possibility that Ipswich might replace Hladky with a younger goalkeeper if they secure promotion to the Premier League.

Ultimately, the article presents a balanced perspective, acknowledging the potential benefits for Hladky at Celtic but also highlighting the importance of Ipswich’s ongoing success and the financial rewards that may come with it.