Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate has rejected three transfer offers as he seeks a move to one of Europe's major leagues. Stephen McGowan of The Herald reports the 28-year-old Japan international has turned down proposals from Greek side Panathinaikos, an unnamed Austrian club and Major League Soccer.
Hatate has informed Celtic of his desire to leave after finding himself out of manager Martin O'Neill's plans in the early weeks of the season. He has been an unused substitute during the opening matches of the campaign. The club is not expected to block his departure if a suitable bid arrives from a league he prefers.
What offers did Reo Hatate reject?
Reo Hatate declined a lucrative proposal from Panathinaikos in Greece. Approaches from a club in Austria and from the United States' MLS were also turned down. The player's stance is clear: he is prepared to wait until the closing stages of the transfer window for an opportunity in England, Spain, Italy, Germany or France. Celtic's stance appears accommodating, given their recent midfield business.
How does this affect Celtic's squad planning?
The club has already acted to reinforce its midfield options. Mika Baur has arrived from German side Paderborn following the £22 million sale of Arne Engels to West Ham United. Another midfield addition is planned. Celtic also remain active in the market for a left-back, with Chelsea's Landon Emenalo having visited Glasgow about a potential season-long loan once he recovers from a minor injury. You can view the full squad composition on our squad page.
What is Reo Hatate's legacy at Celtic?
Since joining during Ange Postecoglou's first season, Reo Hatate has made 189 appearances for Celtic. His trophy haul at the club includes five Scottish Premiership titles, three Scottish Cups and two League Cups. His contributions were a key part of a dominant period for the team. His potential departure marks the end of a significant chapter, with the club now looking to the future. The current league standings show Celtic's position, which you can follow on our standings page.
Celtic's focus now shifts to securing appropriate cover and completing their transfer window plans. The coming days will be decisive for Hatate's future and for the final shape of O'Neill's squad ahead of a busy period of fixtures, which are listed on our fixtures schedule.
