To nobody’s surprise, Reo Hatate wants to leave Celtic this summer.
The writing was well and truly on the wall last season when Martin O’Neill didn’t even select him for Celtic’s last few matchday squads.
On top of that, Hatate had a very poor campaign, and now reports have suggested that he has asked to leave the champions of Scotland.
So, 67 Hail Hail has put forward three midfielders who can replace Celtic’s maverick next season, including rising Aston Villa star, Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba.
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Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, Aston Villa
A left-field pick, and a player not many Celtic fans would have heard of. Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba is a rising star from Aston Villa’s academy.
During the league phase of Aston Villa’s run to the Europa League title, the attack-minded midfielder opened his professional account by netting the decisive goal in a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against RB Salzburg.
Following his loan move to West Bromwich Albion in January, Jimoh-Aloba proved he has the magic in his boots to truly wow a crowd, offering the exact kind of maverick spark that Hatate has been known to provide.
Jakob Breum, Go Ahead Eagles
This name will be familiar to the Celtic Park faithful; that’s because Jakob Breum has been linked to the Hoops.
The 22-year-old helped Go Ahead Eagles win the Dutch Cup during the 2024/25 campaign – their first trophy in 92 years.
Breum was a strong part of that run, also playing six European games last season, including beating Aston Villa during the league phase.
Breum is more well-rounded than Jimoh-Aloba, and he also has more experience than the Villa youngster.
Jordan James, Rennes
On paper, it might not seem logical to push for Jordan James because he was part of the Leicester City side that was relegated to League One last season.
But the Rennes star, who was on loan at the King Power Stadium, was a rare shining light amongst a pile of utter mess in the East Midlands.
That showcases his character, as James has the ability to drop deeper and dictate play, which would complement Callum McGregor brilliantly.
Out of all the players mentioned, James should be the one that Celtic should push for.
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