Celtic have reportedly started talks for Japanese star

It is looking like Celtic are starting to turn things around slowly. The club made a slow start under new manager Ange Postecoglou but have seemed to improve with every passing week and adjust to his style of football.

The 4-2 win against FK Jablonec in the first leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie was the club’s first win of the season. And they then followed it up with an incredible 6-0 win against Dundee last weekend in what was one of the Hoops’ best performances in a long time.

But there are still a few positions that the club need to strengthen in. While they have already signed a couple of centre-backs this summer in the form of Carl Starfelt and Osaze Urhoghide, Postecoglou could do with another option there.

As tweeted out by journalist Ekrem Konur, Celtic have started official talks with Ko Itakura and Manchester City.

More from Celtic FC News

• Celtic handed fresh injury doubt before Feyenoord game
• Celtic’s £40.7 million announcement should scare Rangers
• Brendan Rodgers makes superb claim about returning Celtic player
• BBC pundit makes sensational claim about Celtic hero Kyogo
• Kyogo Furuhashi sends clear message to Celtic doubters

Celtic have reportedly started Itakura talks

One player who has had a brilliant start to his time at Parkhead is Kyogo Furuhashi. He has scored 4 goals in 2 starts for the club, including a hattrick on his Parkhead debut. And now, it looks like the club might have another Japanese star on their radar in the form of Itakura.

The 24-year-old centre-back joined Manchester City back in January of 2019 but is yet to make a first-team appearance for Pep Guardiola’s side. He has made quite an impression away on loan at FC Groningen though, where he spent two-and-a-half seasons.

According to stats from Transfermarkt, Itakura made 59 appearances for FC Groningen during his time there. Thus, he already has decent European experience under his belt. He has also made 5 appearances for the Japan national team.

Itakura should be someone that Postecoglou knows about well and he could be a solid addition to this squad. Now it remains to be seen if the Hoops can get a deal over the line for him.