Celtic's transfer business is starting to pick up pace and the transfer window has just opened. They were already believed to be close to agreeing a deal for Swedish international winger Benjamin Nygren. Now, it looks like the Hoops are set to add to their defensive ranks as well by bringing in a 23-year-old centre-back.
Celtic have needed to make an addition to their left side of central defence for a while. While Cameron Carter-Vickers is a nailed-on starter, there has been inconsistency in the centre-back beside him.
Auston Trusty was brought in last summer in a big-money move from Sheffield United but was not able to establish himself as a starter. By the end of the campaign, Liam Scales had moved ahead of him in the pecking order. And while Maik Nawrocki did impress in the chances he was given, when everybody was fit and available, he found himself back on the bench.
Now, it looks like another centre-back is on his way to Parkhead. As reported by Sponichi, it has been decided that Celtic will acquire Albirex Niigata's Hayato Inamura. According to multiple sources, negotiations are progressing smoothly, and the official contract is scheduled to be signed after a local medical check.
Celtic ready to sign 23-year-old defender with medical set
Inamura is a left-footed centre-back, which is what Brendan Rodgers seems to be looking for to partner Carter-Vickers. The Japanese ace is known for his ability with the ball at his feet.
Celtic have had some great luck when it comes to signing players from the J-League. Kyogo, Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate all established themselves as key players after being signed in the Ange Postecoglou era. Will Inamura be next on that list?
It is worth mentioning that Celtic have had a tough time finding a replacement for Carl Starfelt since his departure in 2023. Gustaf Lagerbielke, Nawrocki and Trusty have all been brought in, and failed. Even Yuki Kobayashi was viewed as the long-term replacement for the Swede but could not find his feet in Scottish football.