Celtic’s strong connection with Japanese football looks set to continue this summer, with Albirex Niigata’s highly rated defender Hayato Inamura emerging as the latest target for Brendan Rodgers…
Talks are underway between the two clubs regarding a possible transfer, though no deal has yet been finalised. A spokesperson for Albirex confirmed negotiations are ongoing, but emphasised that details remain confidential at this stage.
Inamura set to join the list of Japanese players who have pulled on the iconic green and white hoops
Should the move go through, Inamura would join a growing list of Japanese players to pull on the iconic green and white hoops, following in the footsteps of the legendary Shunsuke Nakamura, Kyogo Furuhashi, Reo Hatate, Daizen Maeda, and Tomoki Iwata and one or two others. That cohort has of course delivered success in Glasgow, and Celtic now appear keen to once again tap into the Japanese talent pool.
L to R Hayato Inamura Albirex, Yu Kobayashi Frontale, OCTOBER 13, 2024 – Football / Soccer : 2024 J. League YBC Levain Cup Semi-final 2nd Leg match between Kawasaki Frontale – Albirex Niigata at Uvance Todoroki Stadium, Kanagawa, Japan. Photo IMAGO
Inamura is reportedly taking a medical ahead of a contract signing
Inamura, 23, has impressed this season with 14 appearances and one assist for a Niigata side battling relegation. Despite his team’s struggles, the left-sided defender has shown maturity and versatility, able to slot in both at centre-back and as a left-back — traits that would offer Rodgers added depth heading into the new campaign.
The player himself has remained focused on club duties, downplaying speculation ahead of his side’s clash with Avispa Fukuoka. But with Celtic’s interest mounting, a summer switch seems increasingly likely.
Kobayashi’s Celtic outcome is irrelevant to the Inamura deal
If Inamura does arrive at Celtic Park, the club will perhaps hope he fares better than their last Japanese defensive acquisition, Yuki Kobayashi. Signed in 2022, Kobayashi struggled to make an impact and failed to stand up to the more physical demands in Scottish football and was eventually sold to Portuguese side Portimonense after just seven appearances.
However there’s little or no relevance comparing two players simply because of their nationality.
Inamura appears to possess qualities that Brendan Rodgers is after so the player should be given every encouragement if he signs. With negotiations progressing, Celtic fans may soon see another rising Japanese talent walk through the doors at Paradise shortly.
Celtic are in talks to sign Albirex Niigata centre-back Hayato Inamura. @SkySportsNews understands discussions have progressed well today and the 23-year-old is keen to join the Scottish champions.
Inamura is a left-footed centre-back, who can also play at left-back. pic.twitter.com/N6GtXKpdJb
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) June 16, 2025
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