Benji Siegrist completes Celtic move on a free transfer from Dundee United
BENJI SIEGRIST has completed his move to Celtic on a free transfer from Dundee United.
The 30-year-old, who established himself as one of the best keepers in Scotland in his four years at Tannadice, joins on a four-year deal.
We told you how Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou was close to adding Siegrist to his goalkeeping ranks for next season.
They need extra competition for established No 1 Joe Hart after allowing Vasilis Barkas to move to Utrecht on a season-long loan.
On his move, Siegrist told the Celtic website: "It feels amazing, it’s a very proud feeling to be here, and I’m really, really excited.
"I can’t wait to get going and meet the staff, the players, and, ultimately play for this football club.
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"I had a phone call from the manager, he hung up the phone and I think people just knew straight away that something good was happening.
"It was a very proud moment in my career,
"To be here and be representing the football team, the colours, the city and everything, it’s a hugely proud moment, and everything I’ve always wanted to be – at a top environment, at a top team and it simply can’t get any better than this."
Regarding his games v Celtic, he said: "Of course you know you’re going to be busy playing against such a talented side and international players so I was never short of motivation.
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"And to be here and competing now for Celtic is just amazing.
"You’re never short of motivation when you play against the best, and ultimately I want to play before the best and compete against the best.
"So, obviously coming here and playing here is a different vibe, it’s a different stadium and it can be too big for you, but I’ve always enjoyed the big occasions and that’s something I want to bring here as well.
"I’ve had a good chat with the manager, and his vision for the club, and this is the perfect fit.
"I wanted to be part of it. I know his system is somewhat different than what I’m used to playing, but I’ll look forward to better myself and to learning the system, and making sure I can be relied upon.
"I’ve heard very good things about the goalie coach, Stevie Woods. I think everybody’s told me he’s the best, best, best, so, it’s a match made in Heaven because I want to work and want to improve.
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"I feel like this is the perfect opportunity for me to do so at such a great football club."
He becomes the Hoops' third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Daizen Maeda and Cameron Carter-Vickers.
Hart has a contract until 2024, and has just been handed the No 1 jersey at the club.
Scott Bain - who also has two years remaining on his deal - was established as his No2 - but the arrival of Swiss keeper Siegrist will provide an additional layer of competition.
SunSport spotted Siegrist at the Blythswood Square Hotel in Glasgow, a luxury spot often used by the Hoops as they put the finishing touches to deals.
Manchester United were credited with an interest in the player back in February in their bid for further goalkeeping cover.
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Red Devils' keeper scout Tony Coton watched Siegrist, 30, against Celtic early in the year.
But it's the Hoops who have secured his signature for next season.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page