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Celtic loan watch: How the nine players are faring ahead of end-of-season run-in

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Celtic currently have several players developing away from Parkhead, with loan spells spanning Scotland, England, Germany and Japan.

Each player has different stakes, from trying to prove they have a future at Celtic or to try and earn a move away elsewhere.

Some of the loanees even find themselves in a title race while others are battling to avoid the drop or earn promotion. Here is a breakdown of how every loanee is getting on across the 2025/26 season.

Luis Palma – Lech Poznan

Luis Palma has remained involved at Lech Poznan while speculation continues over his long-term future.

The winger has openly pushed for a return to Celtic, stating his desire for a second opportunity despite interest in a permanent transfer. That stance keeps his situation unresolved heading into the summer window.

Johnny Kenny – Bolton Wanderers

Johnny Kenny has continued his development at Bolton Wanderers, gaining valuable minutes in a competitive environment as they remain in the hunt for promotion to the Championship.

There is growing expectation that he will return to Celtic at the end of the season to challenge for a striker role. His progress puts him firmly in contention for pre-season involvement.

Johnny Kenny in action for Bolton Wanderers against Port Vale.
Photo by Andrew Kearns – CameraSport via Getty Images

Maik Nawrocki – Hannover 96

Maik Nawrocki has established himself as a regular in Hannover 96’s defence during his loan spell. However, uncertainty remains around a permanent deal as the club weighs up whether to trigger their buy option.

His consistent involvement has at least strengthened his case for regular senior football.

Stephen Welsh – Motherwell

Stephen Welsh’s loan at Motherwell was cut short in January 2026 when Celtic recalled him only for him to then return to Motherwell before the deadline.

That decision proved to be the right one as Welsh scored the winning goal against Rangers and has been a constant starter in Jens Berthel Akou’s side since then.

Unless something changes drastically, it is hard to not imagine that the Steelmen will make his move permanent.

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Celtic players huddle during the Premier League match between Motherwell and Celtic at Fir Park
Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images

Hayato Inamura – FC Tokyo

Hayato Inamura has been playing regularly in the J-League with FC Tokyo, featuring consistently in the starting line-up.

He has completed multiple full 90-minute appearances, a farcry from what he experienced with Celtic.

That run of games has provided him with sustained senior experience in Japan and will either help with a permanent move away or allow him to have a second chance with the Hoops.

Jude Bonnar – Ayr United

Jude Bonnar continues to build experience in the Scottish Championship with Ayr United. While not always a guaranteed starter, he has remained a regular part of the matchday squad.

His involvement is contributing to his steady development at senior level.

Kyle Ure – Ayr United

Kyle Ure had been a frequent starter under Scott Brown at Ayr United this season before Ure suffered an injury that kept him out for several months.

Brown has since been sacked by Ayr while Ure has returned to action sporadically, working his way back to fitness.

Kyle Ure speaks to Ayr United's media team
Kyle Ure speaks to Ayr United’s media team Credit: YouTube/Ayr United FC

He is one of the academy’s most exciting talents and there are hopes he can play a role in the first-team.

Ben Summers – Ayr United

Ben Summers joined Ayr United on loan in January 2026, linking up with fellow Celtic prospects.

The move provides him with an opportunity to gain consistent game time in the Championship.

He is now part of a growing contingent of loanees contributing to Ayr’s campaign.

Shin Yamada – Preussen Munster

Shin Yamada moved to Preussen Munster on loan during the January 2026 transfer window. The switch to Germany marks his first experience of European football outside Scotland but so far it has been forgettable for Yamada, who has struggled to make an impact.