According to the Daily Record, Celtic are now plotting a move to sign Manchester City defender Ko Itakura.
The Bhoys need defensive additions and are already lining up a move to sign Hajduk Split defender Mario Vuskovic this summer.
There could be more signings though, and Postecoglou may use his knowledge of Japanese football to bring Itakura to Parkhead.
Celtic’s interest in Itakura
It’s now stated that Itakura is high on Postecoglou’s list of targets with Celtic looking to make a number of moves.
Erik Sviatchenko is another defender Celtic want, as is Talleres ace Piero Hincapie, but strong links to City may help strike a deal for Itakura.
The likes of Jason Denayer, John Guidetti, Dedryck Boyata, Olivier Ntcham and Patrick Roberts have all signed for Celtic from City in recent years, and appointing Postecoglou – a man who managed City Group-owned Yokohama F. Marinos – only strengthens the link.
Who is Ko Itakura?
Itakura was a surprise City signing in January 2019, joining the club despite barely featuring for Kawasaki Frontale in Japan.
The centre back – who can also play in midfield – has spent the last 18 months on loan at Groningen in the Netherlands, registering one goal and one assist in 59 games.
Now 24, Itakura’s chances of breaking into the City side are slim at best, but he could follow in the footsteps of compatriot Shunsuke Nakamura by featuring for Celtic.
Postecoglou will know all about him, and given that Itakura is ‘incredibly fast’ according to Hans Kraay Jr and composed on the ball, he could be a shrewd addition for the Bhoys.
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