According to reports, Celtic look poised to commence contract negotiations with star players Reo Hatate and Liel Abada. The move comes amid strong interest in the duo during the current transfer window.

Hatate has been a standout performer for Celtic since he arrived from Kawasaki Frontale in December 2021. He was brought to the club by former manager Ange Postecoglou and has since attracted attention from English Premier League clubs Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad.

Hatate’s agent has ruled out a move to the Middle East, but the interest from Al Ittihad was genuine, according to RecordSport. The Japanese midfielder has not started in Celtic’s first two league games of the season and recently sustained a calf injury against Aberdeen, which could sideline him for up to four weeks. This injury may deter potential suitors until the January transfer window.

Abada has become a key player for Celtic, consistently contributing goals and assists. He was initially set to receive an improved contract offer last season, but the talks were put on hold under Postecoglou, with the Israel international uncertain over his place in the team.

With the arrival of Rodgers, Abada has found renewed optimism and is expected to remain at the club. Abada has been linked with interest from clubs in Germany and France, but Celtic aims to quash such speculation. He still has a contract until 2026, but the club is looking to enhance the terms of his agreement.

Both Hatate and Abada have a good amount of time remaining on their current contracts, but Celtic is eager to reward their contributions with improved deals and extended terms, not only to quash any immediate interest from elsewhere but to make sure they get top dollar when the time comes to sell.

Celtic’s commitment to retaining key players is further evidenced by the recent five-year contract extension awarded to captain Callum McGregor, alongside long-term deals for Kyogo and Maeda.

Source: Daily Record