Celtic appear to be closing in on the signing of Kawasaki Frontale star Reo Hatate after the Japanese side began their move for a replacement.
Hochi in Japan report that there is a ‘general agreement’ between Celtic and Kawasaki Frontale now in place for Hatate.
The real indication that Hatate is now Celtic-bound is that Kawasaki Frontale are signing a replacement.
It’s stated that Kawasaki Frontale will sign Tatsuki Seko from Yokohama FC, a defensively-minded midfield player.
Seko has been picked out as the man to replace Hatate as he gears up to make a big move to Celtic.
Hatate to kickstart Celtic’s January Japanese influx
Celtic almost had to go back into the Japanese market. They landed boss Ange Postecoglou from Yokohama F. Marinos and star striker Kyogo Furuhashi from Vissel Kobe last summer.
Hatate, 24, won’t break the bank for Celtic and offers great versatility. Just as comfortable at left back as in midfield, Hatate adds great depth for Postecoglou.
Hatate has also developed a winning mentality during his time with Kawasaki Frontale.
They have won the J1 League title two years in a row, with Hatate key to both title wins.
Hatate won’t want that title run to end any time soon, and will be desperate to clinch immediate silverware with Celtic.
Sky Sports claim that Hatate actually met Celtic officials last week. In that meeting, Hatate told the Bhoys he wants the move to Scotland.
With Daizen Maeda and Yosuke Ideguchi also wanted from Yokohama F. Marinos and Gamba Osaka respectively, we could see three Japanese additions for Celtic in January.
If they can have a similar impact to Kyogo, Postecoglou would be over the moon.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
