Brendan Rodgers delivers unexpected transfer update on Celtic hero Reo Hatate

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Celtic fans are desperate to see Brendan Rodgers bring in reinforcements this summer.

The Celtic manager has been at pains to point out exactly what the team needs and with three weeks of the transfer window to go, there is still time to strengthen.

However, when asked if there was any transfer incomings expected at Celtic soon, Brendan Rodgers delivered an unexpected update on Reo Hatate.

And what the Hoops boss said will delight the Celtic support.

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Brendan Rodgers says Celtic ‘haven’t had anything’ for Reo Hatate

This will be music to the Celtic supporters’ ears. When delivering an update on any potential incoming transfers, Rodgers dropped this about Hatate.

Rodgers told the Daily Record, “I’m trying to get them in, never mind get them out!

“So, I don’t know, we haven’t had anything for the likes of Reo and that, but yes, he’s one of the few players in that midfield that can make those incisive passes, and he’ll give the ball away at times, and that used to really frustrate me when I first started to work with him.

“But I know that’s the risk he plays in his game, but he’ll produce a moment like that, which is a brilliant finish, and he’s done that up here before last year.

“So, yes, we want to build a squad, and like I said, there’s lots of areas in it I’m pleased with, but of course, there’s other areas that we will focus on and hopefully improve.”

Celtic fans will be keen to hold onto the Japanese midfielder because as he proved against Aberdeen, Hatate can produce moments of magic that can help the club defend the title.

Reo Hatate’s all-time Celtic numbers

Reo Hatate has been central to Celtic’s successes since he joined the club in December 2021.

The Japan international has won four league titles, two Scottish Cups and two League Cups and here is how Hatate has helped contribute to Celtic’s successes:

• Played: 144
• Goals: 28
• Assists: 28
• Record against Rangers: PL 17, W 9, D 4, L 4 and scored three goals and created two

Hatate is under contract at Celtic until the summer of 2028 so Rodgers and the Parkhead club will be in the driving seat should any transfer suitors come along.