As we get closer to the opening of the summer transfer window, Celtic players are being linked with moves all across Europe. It will be interesting to see which of them actually end up leaving the club this summer and where they end up. Of course, Brendan Rodgers will be hoping to keep the core of his squad together.
That being said, Celtic fans are used to seeing their best players leave pretty much every summer window. It is hard to imagine that a lot will change in that regard.
One player who has been heavily linked with an exit in recent weeks is Reo Hatate. The Japanese midfielder picked up an injury and has been ruled out of the Scottish Cup final against Aberdeen. So, have we already seen his last in a Celtic jersey?
Zico believes that Hatate could do well in Italy, as he is being linked with one of the Brazilian legend's former clubs, Udinese. As reported by the Daily Record, he told the Sunday Post:
"I spoke recently about Hatate with Toru Oniki, his coach at (Kawaski) Frontale (Hatate's former club. for years.
"He told me that he was a strong, fast player with a winning mentality, who has already won a lot in his career.
"He said he is an excellent player, highly regarded, who can operate well in any position across the midfield.
"All indications are he could do very well. Certainly, I would imagine in Italy, especially with a team like Udinese, where he would have time to settle in better."
Brazil legend Zico tips Celtic player for Serie A move
Hatate joined Celtic in the winter of 2022 from Kawasaki Frontale. Before coming to the club, he had actually played a lot of football at left-back and there was some confusion about which role he would play.
Hatate immediately established himself in the Celtic midfield though and has remained a starter since then. After three-and-a-half years at Parkhead, it is very possible that he might feel that the time has come for a change.
Let's see if Hatate decides to make a move this summer or not. If he does, we can only wish him the best of luck and thank him for his contributions so far.