Celtic have already made quite a few signings in this summer transfer window. There are question marks though about whether these fresh faces are ready to make an impact for the Scottish champions upon arrival. A number of them, like Callum Osmand and Hayato Inamura, are not proven talents and have little experience.
Now, it looks like Celtic are on the verge of signing a striker with more than 100 appearances at the senior level and even international level experience. But even in his case, there are doubts about whether he is ready to contribute to Brendan Rodgers' side.
The player we are talking about is Shin Yamada. For the past week now, reports in Japan have suggested that he is on his way to Celtic.
Now, it looks like that move is only a matter of time. In fact, Yamada's club, Kawasaki Frontale, have already officially announced the striker's impending departure. As reported by Glasgow Times, a statement from the J-League read:
"We hereby announce that, as of today, July 16 (Wednesday), player Shin Yamada will be leaving the team to proceed with preparations for a transfer to an overseas club.
"Further details will be announced once they are officially confirmed.
"Additionally, after the conclusion of the Emperor's Cup 3rd Round match against SC Sagamihara today, Shin Yamada will address the supporters."
Celtic free to make next signing as announcement made
Of course, Yamada's next destination has not been officially announced. But there is little doubt about where he is headed next.
Celtic have a great record in recent years when it comes to signing players from the J-League. Kyogo Furuhashi, Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda will go down as club legends. And while it did not work out for Tomoki Iwata, he has proven his quality at Birmingham City. It was just a case of right place, wrong time for him at Parkhead.
One can only hope that Yamada brings similar quality to the table. He has struggled in front of goal lately, scoring only twice in the league this season. But he did manage to score 19 times last time. So, he does know his way to the back of the net.