Celtic’s Fraser Forster interests Sunderland

Fraser Forster makes a save in last weekend's Scottish Cup Final. Picture: SNS

Black Cats boss Paolo di Canio is understood to be an admirer of Celtic’s English keeper, and would be looking to move for a new stopper should Belgian international keeper Simon Mignolet leave Wearside.

Mignolet bagged Player of the Year honours from the Sunderland supporters and his impressive form this season has attracted the attention of big clubs such as Arsenal.

A large cash offer would be too much for Sunderland to turn down, so the club are said to be hunting for a back-up plan should Arsenal pull the trigger on a deal for Mignolet.

Forster signed for Celtic for a fee of £2m from Newcastle and a move back down south could help the English goalkeeper in his quest to play for his country.

Forster missed out on the squad for England’s friendly against the Republic of Ireland this week, and will be looking to feature in Roy Hodgson’s World Cup plans should they qualify for Brazil 2014.

Forster himself has admitted recently that, if Celtic cannot reach next season’s high-profile Champions League group stage, then he may have to consider alternatives for forcing his way back into the international fold.

“The England situation is a tough one for me,” said Forster. “Celtic have been fantastic for me and this season couldn’t have gone much better, both personally and from the team’s point of view. So it is disappointing for me not to be in this latest England squad.

“I’ve got to be looking towards the World Cup next year and trying to be on that plane. I’ll just have to do whatever is necessary to make that squad. World Cups in Brazil don’t come around very often and it would be something special to be involved in. It’s one of my main aims next season and I’ll have to do whatever I can to make it happen.”

The 25-year-old Geordie was a stand out for Celtic, both domestically and in their memorable Champions League campaign. Forster kept 22 clean sheets this season including one in last weekend’s Scottish Cup Final win.