Yuki Kobayashi’s future on bulky Celtic contract

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers reportedly has his priorities set in central defence as he looks to restructure the Hoops’ backline.

Yesterday, news broke that the Bhoys weren’t interested in entertaining offers for Stephen Welsh following an approach from KV Mechelen.

Additionally, Kobayashi is said to be attracting attention from St Mirren. Italian clubs are courting Gustaf Lagerbielke, and Maik Nawrocki could be allowed to depart on loan after picking up an injury in pre-season.

Rodgers is said to be still ‘assessing’ his backline, which could pave the way for an arrival if he can ship out fringe players to create a scenario with a core four to pick from.

With a few weeks of the window remaining, Celtic’s squad complexion could look materially different when it closes, and plenty of movement is expected.

Yuki Kobayashi and his potential Celtic departure

Evaluating reports, it is unclear if St Mirren’s preference would be to pursue Kobayashi on a permanent deal or loan basis. However, his departure has felt inevitable for quite some time.

Bar a brief flurry of action under Ange Postecoglou, the Japanese defender has made just seven appearances for Celtic. In addition, he hasn’t featured once in a competitive setting under current boss Rodgers; make of that what you will.

Now 24 years old, finding an environment where he can gain regular first-team football is critical for his growth. St Mirren may be the ideal place. You only need to look at Hyeokkyu Kwon’s impact in Paisley last season while in a similar position on the fringes.

Circumstances have played their part, though Kobayashi is well down the pecking order at Celtic. Sometimes, a new start is the best course of action for all parties; football is a short career, after all.

Kobayashi is actually on a very long contract at Celtic, until 2028, so a permanent parting of the ways could prove difficult.

Even if he were to depart on loan, this would allow the Kobe-born defender to refuel his career prospects and raise his value. Leaving on a permanent would clear valuable squad and wage space for the Bhoys, so it would be a win-win situation.

Movement is anticipated between now and the end of the window. Frustration over the lack of incomings is palpable, but offloading spare parts is another important consideration for Rodgers.