Viljami Sinisalo is pictured as the Celtic squad depart for a pre-season tour of the USA from Glasgow Airport. | SNS GroupThe Aston Villa man has swapped Birmingham for Celtic.
Viljami Sinisalo has signed for Celtic on a five-year deal as the champions land the first of their two goalkeeping targets ahead of the new season.
The Finnish international leaves Aston Villa after loan spells away from the Premier League side, including time at Ayr United and last season with Exeter City. A goalkeeper, he comes into Brendan Rodgers' side ahead of the expected arrival of new number one, Kasper Schmeichel.
Speaking on the move, boss Rodgers says he's a long-term target. He said: "I am delighted to welcome Vil to Celtic. He is a keeper with real qualities and someone we have been aware of and monitored for some time.
"Clearly we have been looking to develop our goalkeeping team and we are really pleased to have secured one of the talented keepers we really wanted."
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Aston Villa's announcement states: "Aston Villa can confirm that Viljami Sinisalo has joined Celtic."
Celtic's adds: "Celtic Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Finland international goalkeeper, Viljami Sinisalo, from English Premier League side, Aston Villa on a five-year deal, subject to international clearance.
"The 22-year-old Finnish keeper came through the ranks of Aston Villa's academy and spent last season on loan at Exeter City where he was named player of the year for the English League One side after making 50 first team appearances across all competitions."