Celtic January rumours increase excitement levels for supporters

By David Walton

November 4, 2021

The rumour mill heading into the January transfer window burst into life yesterday with Celtic reportedly eyeing up a move for Reo Hatate.

Football Scotland reported that the Hoops were already in talks with the player’s agent. Despite being capable of operating as a left-back, the report stated that Celtic see him more as a midfield option.

Japan U23 international Hatate has been a key part of the Kawasaki Frontale that secured its second successive J-League title earlier this week. The Japanese outfit have only lost one league game all season too.

Hatate has been involved in 33 of the club’s matches this season, notching 5 goals and 3 assists in the process [Transfermarkt]. He’s operated in a host of positions for Kawasaki this season, but has mainly played at left-back.

Celtic plucked the J-League in the summer to take Kyogo Furuhashi from Vissel Kobe in what’s been a highly successful decision from the club.

Reo Hatate to Celtic has got the supporters talking

It’s no surprise to see such excitement exuberating through the Celtic support when it comes to this one. When you consider how impressive Kyogo has been in his early months at Parkhead, Japanese football’s reputation is soaring in Glasgow.

Of course, there’s no guarantee this is a deal that gets done. Ange Postecoglou may have already confirmed that he’ll look at Japan for talent this January, but he’ll likely have a fair idea of the players he wants from there already. After all, he did work there for 2 years prior to his summer switch to Celtic Park.

Celtic are in desperate need of another high-quality midfield option too. James McCarthy and Ismaila Soro have been hugely disappointing so far this season. The Hoops are often having to rely on the same faces, whilst an upgrade on Nir Bitton would also be welcome.

Hatate’s versatility also makes him a highly-attractive prospect. Celtic hardly have a first-choice left-back at the moment and it’s causing us bother. If Hatate adds to the depth we have in that area too, it;’s a win-win.

Now, let’s take a look at how the Celtic fans have reacted to the rumour, with many feeling the J-League fever coming on:

In other news, Ange Postecoglou explains why Celtic fan-favourite could soon face more bench time