Udinese tracking ‘undervalued’ £10,000,000 Celtic star as fierce summer transfer battle looms

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Celtic could be facing a big summer transfer window ahead as they look to stay competitive domestically and in Europe.

With Rangers on the brink of a takeover, the Bhoys could be facing a tougher challenge to retain the Scottish title as the Gers lick their wounds and reinforce.

In Europe, Celtic also face a tougher challenge to just qualify for the Champions League thanks to Scotland’s UEFA coefficient falling.

There’s also the Jota injury that’s ruled the Portuguese winger out until 2026.

All of this means Celtic are in need of a smooth and effective transfer window this summer in order to ensure another successful season.

However, after another trophy-laden campaign, the Hoops could face a struggle to keep hold of some of their best players as clubs from the top European leagues circle.

Udinese are tracking Celtic’s Reo Hatate as a transfer option

Reo Hatate is currently being scouted by Udinese, as the Italian club weigh up a transfer for the Japanese midfielder, The Sun reports.

The newspaper claims Udinese officials have been specifically tasked with monitoring Hatate, and have gone to Celtic matches to observe his performances.

The Italian club aren’t the only ones interested in Celtic’s number 41, with clubs in France and Germany also thought to be keen on the 27-year-old.

Fortunately for Celtic, Hatate has three years left to run on his contract – meaning the Bhoys can demand big money should any negotiations arise.

The Japanese midfielder is currently valued at £10 million on the market according to Transfermarkt, but his contract situation and the interest of multiple clubs will only drive that number upwards.

Any deal would likely result in a massive profit on the 27-year-old, who was bought by Ange Postecoglou in December 2021 for a bargain £1.4 million.

Udinese are currently lying 12th in Serie A, in what’s been an underwhelming season for the Udine-based club.

Andy Halliday believes Reo Hatate is “undervalued and underappreciated” by Celtic fans.

What Reo Hatate has said about transfer away from Celtic

Reo Hatate has previously spoken of his desire to play in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

In an interview with GOAL in Japan in 2023, he said: “If there is a chance to step up, I would like to play in various leagues.

“As a football player, I think everyone wants to play at a high level throughout the season. When I was in the J-League, I thought it was impossible to play in the five major leagues.

“However, because I was able to achieve a certain amount of results throughout the season with Celtic, I started to think that I would like to challenge myself next time. If there is a chance, I would like to take on the challenge.”

Hatate has enjoyed playing in the Champions League for Celtic, which is something Udinese would not be able to offer him as they haven’t qualified for any European competition this season.

With a host of clubs interested in the Japanese midfielder, it’s definitely one to keep an eye on this summer.