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Celtic has entered the race for Hertha BSC goalkeeper Tjark Ernst, joining a growing list of European clubs eyeing the 23-year-old as a potential summer signing. The Scottish champions are looking to bolster their goalkeeping options, and Ernst’s breakout season in Germany’s 2. Bundesliga has made him one of the more attractive options on the market.
Ernst posted 37 appearances during the 2025/26 season for Hertha BSC, recording 12 clean sheets in the process. Standing at 1.93 meters, he has the physical profile that modern goalkeeping demands. Born on March 15, 2003, in Stuttgart, Ernst came through the youth academy at VfL Bochum before establishing himself as Hertha’s first-choice keeper. He’s also a former Germany U21 international.
His contract with Hertha BSC runs until June 30, 2027, after the club extended his deal in September 2024. Reports suggest a release clause of around €5 million exists in the contract.
Celtic’s interest is notable, but they’re far from the only club paying attention. Ajax and VfL Wolfsburg have also been linked with Ernst. Earlier in 2026, around April, SC Freiburg, FC Augsburg, Mainz 05, and Hamburger SV were all reportedly monitoring Ernst’s situation.
For Hertha BSC, the situation is uncomfortable. The club is competing in the 2. Bundesliga and would understandably prefer to keep a keeper who has been instrumental to their season, but when a release clause exists and multiple clubs come knocking, the selling club’s leverage evaporates quickly.
With the summer transfer window heating up and multiple clubs circling, Ernst’s situation at Hertha BSC looks increasingly untenable. The reported €5 million release clause means this won’t be a protracted negotiation.
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