Brendan Rodgers has confirmed the club are actively monitoring their options at left‑back this summer. With Kieran Tierney rejoining the squad after signing a pre‑contract in January, there’s renewed optimism.
The Scotland international featured in the first half of Celtic’s 3-2 friendly defeat against Estrela da Amadora yesterday, marking his second debut for the club.
Hayato Inamura, who joined from Japan, has predominantly played as a centre‑back. That said, his performances at full‑back in the last two outings have caught the eye. Inamura’s adaptability offers Rodgers flexibility and depth. Nonetheless, Rodgers remains clear: the Hoops may yet pursue another fleft‑back before the transfer window shuts.
Portuguese Under‑21 defender Flávio Nazinho has emerged as a name on Celtic’s radar. The 21‑year‑old’s performances in youth football and his potential to challenge Tierney could make him an appealing option. Rodgers hinted that Inamura might stay if deemed ready, but acknowledged further reinforcement may yet be needed.
This summer, Celtic’s backline is evolving. Tierney’s return boosts experience and quality, while Inamura’s emergence adds competition. But in Rodgers’ view, one more signing could solidify cover and ensure a healthy rotation as the season begins.
He said: (RecordSport), “Sometimes that means they come in and you assess and look, and look to see what’s right for the development of them and the team.
“If they are going to be close to the first-team, they’ll stay and do that. If not, we may feel they need to go out.
“Ina’s (Hayato Inamura) that example. I just wanted to get the chance to see him and we’ll continue to do that.
“But we know in the background that if we need to move on that position, that if we need to move on that position, that’s something that we will be ready to do.”
Flávio Nazinho has been linked with Celtic as the club looks at options for the left-back position. The Portuguese Under-21 international is quick, good on the ball, and reads the game well, qualities that would show him to be a valuable backup to Tierney.
Rodgers’ comments suggest Celtic are ready to move if the chance to sign him becomes real. At the same time, the Irishman is weighing up the value of strengthening now against letting players like Inamura prove themselves. His approach seems to be giving players a chance while staying open to bringing in new signings if needed.
Inamura’s showing against Estrela da Amadora gave supporters something to think about. Tierney’s return was the headline, but the Japanese defender impressed again in a less familiar role. The talk around Nazinho, and others like him, shows Celtic are serious about improving the squad. With Champions League qualifiers and a long season ahead, proper cover at left-back will be important.
As things stand, fans should expect Celtic to keep watching the market. Inamura’s form gives Rodgers a short-term option, but he’s clearly not ruling out another addition.
With the Rodgers confirming the club “will be ready” if needed, another signing in that area remains very possible. It’s the kind of flexibility that could make a difference when the big games come thick and fast later in the campaign.
