Scottish champions Celtic The signing of Vissel Kobe defender Yuki Kubayashi is on the horizon, with Hoops boss Ange postecoglou eager to strengthen his side in January.
What’s the word?
Recent reports from Japan as per the Daily RecordAccording to, Old Firm is expected sign the centre-back on a complimentary transfer in the winter window. With only a few months remaining on the 22-year old’s contract, existing deal His current side.
Journalist Dean Jones – speaking to GIVEMESPORT – has now given his backing to the potentially impending move, suggesting that it could represent further astute business from the Parkhead giants under Postecoglou’s watch.
The transfer insider stated: “Celtic, we know are not afraid to take players like this on.
“We know Ange likes to step out the box and think differently and sign players from different leagues, he isn’t worried about how they’ll adapt. He has a very good instinct for things like this, and it could be a really smart signing.”
Repeat Hatate masterstroke
The imminent swoop could see the Hoops boss rely on his J-League connections once more. The former Yokohama head coaching has already signed four players from Japan’s top-flight during his time in Glasgow, in the form Kyogo Furuhashi (Reo Hatate), Daizen Maeda, and Yosuke Itoguchi.
As with the move for Kobayashi’s, all three of these were snapped up in the January window last seasonHatate in particular was quick to make his mark in his new surroundings. He had only taken a few minutes to settle in Scotland after his arrival.
The diminutive playermaker was memorably introduced in the Scottish Premiership by a stunning announcement. brace His Old Firm derby debut in February saw him finish the 2021/22 campaign with an impressive haul of four Only 21 games saw three assists and two goals.
The 5 foot 8 sensation has already made an impact in the current campaign. six Involvement in goal for 20 of his appearances across all fronts. 16 of those appearances were from the beginning.
The 24-year-old’s latest performance in the win over Ross County on Saturday was arguably one of his “best games in a Celtic jersey” to date, in the words of journalist John McGinley, having registered two It was a great help in that comeback victory.
A key cog in Postecoglou’s relentless machine, Hatate has thrived since his move to Paradise earlier this year, with the hope being that compatriot Kobayashi can replicate his success in 2023 and beyond, were a deal to finally be struck in the coming weeks.
The latter man – who has made 78 appearances at his current club to date – would offer further competition to the Bhoys’ defensive ranks, as well as providing a unique alternative to the squad as a left-footed option.
While a relative unknown outside of his homeland – much like Hatate was – the indication is that the 6 foot 1 ace could prove to be yet another diamond unearthed by Postecoglou, with journalist Sacha Pisani saying of the youngster’s talents:
“Yuki’s good in the air. Reads/anticipates game well. Comfortable on ball as left-footer & very good at blocking shots. A lot of upside.”
The glowing assessment should pique the attention of Celtic Park officials. It is hoped that he will go on to become a major presence at the club, like Hatate did this past calendar year.